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PICTURE 

OF 

FOB 18S4, 

CONTAINING THE 

PICTURE OF PHIL^iDELPHM, 

FOR 1811, 
BY JAMES MEASE, M.D." 

WITH ALL ITS IMPROVEMENTS SINCE THAT 
PERIOD, 



BY THOMAS VlLSON. 



PHILADELPHM: 

t'HISTED BT TEOMAS TOWN, NO. 38, CHESNPT-STBEET^ 




\'Z. 



\5B 



V 



PICTURE 



PHILADELPHIA 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

TnADiTiox relates that it was the original intention of Wil- 
liam Penn to have founded Pliiladelphla near the lower side of 
Poquessing creek, tlie boundary line between the counties of 
Philadelphia and Bucks, on an elevated spot of ground on the 
margin of the Delaware, a river so named in honour of Thomas 
West, Lord De-la-war, an English nobleman, descended from 
one of the adventurers who accompanied William the first, of 
England, the bastard son of the duke of Normandy, In the con- 
.quest and subjection of that country, in the eleventh century. 

The built parts of the city extejul along the Delaware for 
about four miles; v/estwardly, on High or Market-street, in- 
cluding Hamilton Village, with the exception of some vacant 
lots west of the Centre Square, nearly two and an half miles; 
and on the other streets, westwardly, generally about one mile. 

Few cities in the world can vie with this in Improvement, as 
the results of the last eleven years will tend to demonstrate. 

The suburbs of the city, on its north side, incorporated, are, 
The J^'orthern Liberties, bounded on the south by Vine-street, 
which separates it from the city ; westwardly, by Sixth-street ; 
northwardly, by Cohocksink creek, which divides it from Ken- 
sington, originally called Shackamaxon, its Indian appellation ; 
and east'A ardly, by the Delaware. This district is again sub- 
divided into seven wards, the centre of which is 'I'hird-street, 



4 1>ITR0DUCT011Y HISTORY. 

bavinjf three on each side, until it reaches Poplar Lane, the 
ward beyond which extends from Sixth-street, along its north- 
ern boundary, to the river. 

Spring Garden embraces all the incorporated part of the 
suburbs west of Sixth, and north of Vine-street, and Kensington 
is a district no:th ag-ain of the Northern Liberties, from which 
it is divided, as iias been already stated, by Cohocksink creek, 
to which it is connected by several bridges, built of brick or 
stone, and one of wood. In process of time this creek will un- 
doubtedly share the fate of that over which Dock-street is now 

Southwark (incorporated) and Moyamensing are its southern 
stiburljs, and Hamilton Village its western, connected with the 
c:ty by the Permanent Bridge. 

The defences of the city against an invading army by water, 
:ire fort Mifflin, formerly Mud fort, erected on an island eight 
miles below. The course of the channel compels all vessels 
bound up to come within point blank range of its cannon. This 
fort.is an embankment well constructed and faced with hewn 
stone and brick, furnished with salient angles, bomb-proof. Sic. 
furnaces for heating shot, and well supplied with heavy or- 
dinance, and a competent garrison: — and a very large and ex- 
pensive foilification on an efficient and liberal plan, not yet 
completed., on a small island called the Pea-Patch, situated a 
few miles below New Castle. These, in a complete state of re- 
pair, properly garrisoned, miinitloned and provided for, render 
Philadelphia unassailable by water. 

The population of the built parts of Philadelphia and suburbs, 
according to the marshall's return in 1820, was 114,410, and in 
1810, 92iSS6, making an increase, during ten yeai-s, of 21,524. 
Tor its anterior progressive state the reader is referred to Dr. 
Mease's Picture subjoined. 

In order to defend, as much as possible, the city against the 
direful effects of fire, the erection of wooden buildings are pro- 
hibited by an act of the legnslature, passed in 1796, within the 
limits including that part which hes between t^e river Dela- 
ware and the east side of Sixth-street, and between the south 



INTRODTJCTOEY HISTORY. 5 

Side of Vine and north side of Kace-streets, and between the 
said livev and the south side of Walnut and the north side ot 
Cedar-streets, and from the Delaware to Tenth-street, between 
the north side of Walnut and south side of Race-streets, under 
the penalty of five hundred dollars on due conviction. 

The city contains one unchartered and eight chartered bank- 
ing' institutions, a Saving Bank, an office in Church alley, for the 
transaction of business for the Camden Dank in New Jersey, 
and one in the Nortliern Liberties ; the nominal capitals of se- 
veral of which amount to §43,050,000, and thirteen Insurance 
Companies, the capitals of eleven of which are stated at 
,S3, 680,000, in shares of 400, 100, 80, 60 and 10 dollars each. 

The commerce of the city has declined and property has fall- 
en since the general restoration of peace in Europe nearly fifty 
per cent, on an average. 

In front of the first brick house built in Philadelphia, in 
Chesnut-street, opposite Carpenter's court, was a wharf to 
whicti vessels came up, on the creek on which Dock-street now 
is. In laying down the conduit pipes of iron in the summer of 
1823, the workmen dug down to this same wharf, part of which 
they had to cut away in order to lay down tlie pipes. The tim- 
ber was of oak and in a gocd state of preservation. Before it 
was again covered the place "was visited by numbers of the ci- 
tizens and strangers, out of curiosity. 

On the N W. part of the square between Market and Ches- 
nvit, and Seventh and Eighth-streets, v ilh the front on Ches- 
nut, was erected by the late Robert Morris, Esq. a most splen- 
did and costly mansion of brick, faced with marble, of about 
one hundred and fifty feet front, and ninety feet deep. The de- 
sign was the production of major L'Enfant. The budding was 
begun in 1791, and was nearly completed when its owner failed. 
It stood for a length of time in an unfinished state, when it was 
purchased at public sale by ^^'ill^am Sansom, Esq. who caused 
it to be torn down, and the buildings which now grace that 
square to be erected, with Sansom-street in the centre. Be- 
sides the mansion, it was the intention pf Mr. Morris to have 
had the whole square laid out in gravel walks and pleasure 
A 2 



6 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

grounds, studded with trees shrubbery— but, alas ! how fleet- 
ing is human grandeur. The man who was minister of finance 
during our revohitionary war; who raised monies for the Uni- 
ted States, on his own credit, when that of the government was 
at a very low ebb ; who raised this splendid structure, was at 
last thrown into prison for debt. 

The public square on which the State-House. City and Coun- 
ty CouTt-IIouses and Philosophical Hall are built, was ordered 
to be sold by an act of the Legislature of Pennsylvania, passed 
March lllh, 1816, giving the privilege of refusal to the Corpo- 
ration of Philadelphia at seventy thousand dollars. T^piN. W. 
and N. E. corner lots, the buildings thereon, the lot on which, 
the Philosophical Hall stands, and the two public offices in 
possession of the County Commissioners, were released trom 
the claim of the state, and granted and confmned to the City 
and County of Philadelphia. It v.as purchased by the mayor 
in behalf of the corporation of the City, on the terms prescribed 
in the act of the Legislature. 

In the City and suburbs are 222 streets, 165 alleys, 150 
courts, 18 lanes, and 6 avenues. It must be observed that ma- 
ny of the streets do not extend more than from one to three 
or four squares, and some of them are no better than alleys or 
lanes. 

Washington Square, formerly the old Potters' Field, has 
been handsomely laid out into gravel walks, planted with trees 
and fenced in with handsome palings. At present it is kept 
closed. The square parallel to it in the north part of the City, 
between Race and Vine, and Sixth and Franklin-streets, is now 
putting in the same state. It is, however, blemished on the 
side of Vine-street by a cemetery which ought not to exist in 
that q\jarter. 

In the Centre Square, on the eastern side, is a handsome 
statue of a water nymph, with an aquatic bird on her shoulder, 
from the chissel of the celebrated Rush of this City. Through 
the beak of this bird a fountain sometimes discharges itself, 
which is fed by a conduit from Fair Mount reservoir. The City 
and suburbs contain fifty -nine places for public worship, nine of 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 7 

which are Episcopalians, including one for blacks ; nine Pres- 
byterians, including one for blacks; six Baptists, of which one 
is for blacks ; five for the society of Friends ; four Roman Ca- 
tholics; four Reformed Dutch Churches; two UniversalistS; 
one Moravian ; one Menonist ; one for the followers of Ema- 
nuel Swedenburg ; two Hebrew Synagogues, besides several 
Methodist and other chui'ches, an account of which will be 
given in their proper places. 

From Fair Mount water works, at the reservoir, we have the 
most magnificent scenery on which the eye can repose with de- 
light : 'Ihe two basins, or reservoirs, before you : the water 
works, dam, the garden of Henry Pratt Esq.: the western part 
of the City, studded with trees, two steeples, some cupolas, 
shot tower, the meandering Schuylkill, two permanent bridges, 
the spire of the Episcopal church in Mantua village, out- 
topping the surrounding foliage ; the villas and rising grounds 
clothed in the habiliments of nature for tlie season, on the 
western side of the Schuylkill — all command the attention of 
the admiring traveller. 

Peg's Run rises in the western part of Spring Garden, and 
pursuing an eastern course, discliarges itself into the Delaware 
near Peg-street. It is arched over across all the streets that it 
passes. In Front-street, near its estuary, was formerly a wood- 
eji bridge, called Pool's Bridge. In process of time this stream 
will become a common sewer or culvert, similar to the Dock- 
street one. 

The houses in general are built of brick, and three stories 
high, plain and neat ; some, however, are structures that would 
vie with the first in Europe. 

The markets are well attended with provisions from the sur- 
rounding country, and generally of the best quality. Before 
we proceed to give a description of the public buildings, we 
lay before our readers a statement of the manufactures and 
commerce of the City as far as has been practicable. 



K MANUFACTURES. 

Manufactures. 

THE account given of the manufacturing establishments In 
this City and vicinity are not complete, but are as mucli so as the 
nature of the case will admit. Prior to the long embargo and 
our late war aith Britain, American manufactures, particularly 
in the cloth and cotton line, were treated with more than cold 
indifference, with a neplect bordering on persecution. The 
celebrated British Orders in Council, and consequent French 
letaliatory decrees, gave rise to a state of things in this country 
which impclk'd us, particularly during the war, to bring our 
own resources into activity. Hence we found, whilst it lusted, 
inanufactories springing up as it were, in every section, almost, 
of the Union, nurtured by the high prices tliat pferiod afforded 
them. On tl>e return of peace they had the goods of foreign 
manufactories to compete with, and it was natural to expect tliat 
our own government wouid eztend its fostering hand to, pro- 
tect them; but the expectation was vain; the consequence 
was, that the then proprietors beheld the results of their in- 
dustry and capital, after languisliing for some time, fall under 
the hammer of the sheriff, and themselves reduced to penury. 
It was found by subsequent enterprising men, that the only re- 
sistance that could be made to destroy the consumption of fo- 
reign goods was to reduce the wages of workmen so low as 
barely to procure a scanty subsistence. The almost total ex- 
tinction of business in our capital cities depending on foreign 
trade, has produced, partially, a revivifying effect, and we find 
its beneficial influence. At present our most patriotic citizens 
manifest their attachments to their country by the consumption 
of articles of domestic m.mufacture in preference to foreign 
ones ; insomuch so that the foreign manufactures have had re- 
course \.o imitations, to procure a market by deception, for their 
goods. In the City and its vicinity there are at present nearly 
four thousand hand looms in operation, and increasing annually 
Titthe rate of about twenty per cent. 

I'here are fourteen breweries for porter, ale and beet, the 
establishments of which are generally very extensive, one of 



MANUFACTURES. 9 

ihem is owned by a company of farmers and farm holders, for 
the purpose of manufacturing their own barley, and of increas- 
ing the consumption of malt liquors. It is on a very large and 
extended scale. The foundation was put down in 1822, on the 
24th day of August. It began the brewing of beer, January 
oOth, 1823, and is now in full operation. 

Of thirty -three cotton and woollen factories in the City and 
vicinity of Philadelphia, worked by water or steam power, 
twenty of them have no less than 28,750 spindles in operation, 
and th€ number increasing. 

There are two glass furnaces at Kensington, for the purpose 
of making cylinder and hollow ware glass, belonging to T. W. 
Dyott, who also owns the Hamington and Olive Glass Works, 
in Gloucester County, New-Jersey, for making window-glass, 
bottles and phials; also a manufacture of window-glass in South 
or Cedar street, on the banks of the Schuylkill, belonging to 
Luther Frank. 

Also two manufactories for making Printer's Ink, one on the 
corner of Lombard and 10th street, belonging to Charles John- 
son, and the other 252, Market street, belonging to John Rich- 
ardson. 

Likewise two shot towers, the one in the city, near the 
Schuylkill, North of Market street, belonging to Paul Beck, 
built square, 165 feet high, 31 feet diameter at the base and 21 
at the top: to which is annexed other buildings and a smelt- 
ing house whicii contain all the necessary machinery, and can 
cast and finish three tons of shot per day: the other is circular, 
345 feet in height, 30 feet at the base and 15 at the top, diame- 
ter. It has finishing shops and out-houses and machinery 
making patent shot and can supply all the U. S. 

Ronaldson's Type Foundery in Cedar between Ninth and 
Tenth streets, is on a very extensive scale; but the business has 
materially declined within the last few years. 

The Messrs. Wetherill's have a large factory at the corner of 
Twelfth and Cherry -streets for the manufacture of "White and 
Jted Lead. 



10 MANUFACTURES. 

The following are the principal Factories of note in 
and near the City. 

The Arkwright and Steam-Mill, in Front-street, Kensington, 
often horse power, employs about sixty hands and is calculated 
to spin annually about 90,000 wt. of cotton yarn. 

Crozer'a Cotton Factory at Crum creek, Delaware Co. Pa. has 
in operation 1000 spindles. 

M'Credy's Cotton Factory on Darby Creek, has 1700 spin- 
dies and 16 looms worked by water power ; employs about six- 
ty hands, and manufactures cotton-yarn and brown sheetings. 

Frankfort Cotton Factory, with 1816 spindles, manufactures 
weekly about 60U lbs, of cotton-yarn of No. 20 to 30. 

Glenville Cotton Factory, Chester County, Pa. works 20 
looms and 1000 spindles, 

I'razier's Jtfanufactory, by steam power, of sTiirtings, sheet- 
ings and cotton yarn, at the corner of South Fifth and Christian 
streets, has 1000 spindles in operation. 

The Globe Mills, on the Germantown road, between North 
Second and Third-streets, Northern Liberties, employs about 
300 hands; manufactures ginghams, drillings, checks, shirtings, 
sheetings, &c. have in use 3200 spindles, and in proportion 
carding and other machinery and consume weekly about 18 
bales of cotton, each weighing about 300 lbs. 

Greiner's Trenton Cotton Mill, adjoining the City of Trenton 
N. J. is worked by water power, has in operation 1100 spindles, 
and in proportion carding machines, looms and other machine- 
ry; spins about liOO lbs. of yarn weekly, out of which are 
manufactured ginghams, drillings, checks, sheetings, shirtings. 
Sec. and keeps about 100 persons in employ. 

Holmesburg Factory, Philadelphia County, keeps 1800 spin- 
dles in operation. 

Kensington Cotton Mill, on the margin of the Delaware, Ken- 
sington, employs constantly 163 persons, men, women and chil- 
dren; spins on 1200 spindles, about 1500 wt. of raw cotton 
weekly into yarn of No's, from 14 to 20. 
Lodge Cotton Mill, on Darby creek, hag in operation 524 spin- 



MANUFACTURES. 11 

dies, and Liw^ren's £jf Co. on Chester creek, Delaware CoUnty, 
1000, 

,M'Callmont's in Bristol township, contains 18 carding ma^ 
chines with necessary apparatus, giving work to about 100 
persons. 

The Merion Cotton Mill, on Mill creek, employs 940 spindles 
chiefly in the manufacture of cotton-yarn. 

The Providence Cotton Works, 15 miles from the City, «m. 
ploys 1200 spindles and 20 power looms. 

Pleasant Mills Cotton Factory, Gloucester County, N. J. has 
1000 spindles at work. 

Providence Cotton Works, 15 miles from Philadelphia, have 
1200 spindles and 20 power looms in employ. 

Pichards's Flat Rock Canal Cotton Factory, 7 miles from 
Philadelphia, has 1500 spindles at work andhas machmery in 
hands to aug'ment the number to 4900 and 60 power looms, and 
machinery for weaving, which will employ about 200 people. 

Hillsbnrg Mills, on Ridley creek, 15 milp? from Philadelphia, 
have 1200 spindles engaged in spinning cotton yarn. 

Ridley Cotton Mills, in Delaware County, has 500 spindles in 
operation. 

SimsviUe Factory, on the Brandywine has 2500 spindles em- 
ployed in spinning cotton-yarn, and from 70 to 80 persons, 
mostly women and children. 

Valleu Cotton Works, on the Schuylkill, 20 miles from Phila- 
delphia, employ 1500 spindles with power looms and other ma- 
chinery proportionate thereto. 

There is a woollen factory at the falls of Schuylkill, six miles 
from Philadelphia, which has seven carding machines and other 
apparatus at work. 

Rockland Manufacturing establishment, on Brandywine, Dela- 
ware State, comprise the Delaware Woollen Factory and Wal- 
lace Cotton Factory, which are calculated to give employ to 
from 300 to 400 persons. 

Besides the above there are the Bristol Cotton and Woollen 
Factory at Bristol, 20 miles from Philadelphia; a Cotton and 
Woollen Factory at New-Hope, Bucks County, Pa. ; Fisher's 



12 MANUFACTURES. 

Woollen Factory at Germantown, 6 miles from Philadelphia; 
also Kelly's "Woollen Factory near the same ; Rodman's Wool- 
len Factory. Germantown; and Well's and Fisher's Cotton and 
Woollen Factory at New-Hope, Buck's County, Pa. 

The Mars Iron Foundry and Steam Engine Manufactory, at 

the corner of North Ninth and Vine Streets, consist of two 

. furnaces which can melt five tons of Iron, a Steam Engine of 

six horse power for driving boring mills, &c. &c. shop for 

making patterns for castings, and a black-smith's shop. 

The City Iron Foundry and Steam Engiiie Manufactory, for 
high and low pressure, is situated in Filbert-street, Centre 
Square. 

The Kensington Steam Engine Manufactory, corner of 
Marsh and Penn sis, Kensington, employs about 15 hands. 

There is a Machine Card Manufactory at No. 68, Market St. 
that gives employment to about 500 persons. 

The Book-Selling, Printing and Type Foundery business 
have declined materially during the past four or five years. 

An abstract from the report of Manufacturers for the 
County of Philadelphia — Articles Manufactured^- 
Made in the Marshal's report accompanying the last 
Census. 

Andirons, baskets, beds and matresses, beer, porter, ale, bis- 
cuit, blistered steel, printed and blank books, boots and shoes, 
brass and japanned lamps and andirons, bridle bits and stirrup 
irons, bricks, brushes and bellows, button moulds, printed cal- 
Ileoes, carriages, gigs, harness, cloths, cassimeres, cotton goods* 
chambrays, checks, tickings, shirtings, sheetings, plaids, che- 
micals, composition ornaments, copper, brass and tin ware, 
cordage, cotton bagging, navy duck and twine, cotton twist, 
cotton shirting, cotton yarn, checks, lace, shirtings, sheetings. 
Sec. fire engines, jacks, he. flannel, flour, cabinet furniture, 
glass, gold and silver leaf, nitrate of silver, gold foil, and gold 
and silver powder, hogsheads and barrels, hats, japanned and 
brass lamps, &.c. Jewelry of all kinds, iron and brass wire, 
wove selves, &c. Leather, looking glasses and fancy chairs. 



COMMEUCE. 13 

lace, friKge and binding, morocco, parchment and buckskin, 
nails, brads, hoop and rod iron, paper, pupei-luin.Lfing and 
playing cards, parchment, chamois and buckskin, pulcnt and 
moulded sliot, piano fortes, playing and other rards, plaster 
and ginger, pottery, prinling-type, rolled iron, saddles, bridle 
and harness, silver tea and coS'ee sets of plate, silver and gjld 
ware and jewelry, soap and candles, steam kitchens, stoves 
&c., starch and hair powder, stockings for the U. S . Loaf, lump 
and candied sugar, swords, pistols and rifisS; tin ware, tobacco, 
snuff and cigars, turning machinery in general, white and red 
lead, litharge, chromic yellow. Sic. Woollen j arn. 

The raw materials of which amount to §1,047,260, valued 
retail at market at §1,348,890, giving employ to upwards of 
1100 men, 300 women and nearly 800 girls and boys, employ' 
ing an investment of capital amounting to gl, 436,210: wages 
to workmen employed amount to §426,118, 
Commerce. 

The exports of domestic p^roduce and manufactures from 
the district of Philadelphia to {t,.reigu countries during the 
years 1820—21 and 22, amounted to 3^''-^S9,50r, consisting of 
beeii tallow, beer, porter, cider, spirits tVi.m grain, biscuit, sliip'^ 
bread, butter, cheese, cables, cordage, spermwoeti and tallow can- 
dles, soap, coaches, copper and brass, cotton, dnVd, smoked and 
pickled fish, flaxseed, flour, ginseng', gold and silver coin, gun- 
po A'der, hats houshold furniture, Indian corn, pig-iron, .nails, all 
manufactures of iron, leather, boots, shoes, Indian meal, rye 
meal, medicinal drugs, naval stores, tar, pitcli, rosin, turpeIltilK^ 
spermaceti, whale, other fish and linsceed oil, spirits of turpen- 
tine, pork, hams, bacon, lard, rice, saddlery, skins, furs, spirits 
from molasses, refined sugar, tobacco in lihds. and manufactur- 
ed, snutV, wax, staves, shingles, boards, planKS, other lumber, 
masts, spars, oa-. bark and other dye, manufactured merchan- 
dize and raw produce not enumerated, 

T/ie Exports -iuerefor 
1820 — Domestic produce and Manu- 
facture, . . . S2,948.5/9 
Foreign Merchandize, . . o,; 34,670 

Total for 1820, , . §5,743,549 

B 



1* COMMERCE. 

182 1 — Domestic produce and Manu- 
factures, .... 3,544,254 
Foreign Merchandize, . , 3,810, 15r 

Total for 1821, . . .. 7,354,411 

1822— Domestic produce and Manu, 

facture, .... 3,989,507 

Foreign Merchandize, . . 5,058,295 

Total for 1822, . . 9,047,802 

Total, foreign and domestic for three years, ^22,145,762 

The Imports -were for 
1821— Merchandize, , . . 8,158,922 
l822-» do . , . 10,879,790 

20,038,712 



2,107,050 



Thus in three years the exports only exceeded two years im- 
ports by 2,107,050 dollars, and were less than the imports dur. 
ing the same years by lg5,7<3,549, shewing a heavy balance of 
trade against us. 

The imports consisted of JMerchandize free of duty— Copper^ 
brass, &c. in pig? and bars, bullion, gold and silver coin, dye 
woods, raw lyefes, brimstone and sulphur, undrewed furs, plais- 
fer of Par«5. and all other free articles. 

Paring ad valorem Duty—Cloths and cassimeres, worsted 
ajjrf'atuflT goods, woollen blankets and rugs, raw wool, printed 
and co'loured and white cotton and nankeen piece goods ; 
woollen a.^d cotton hose, cotton, twist yarn and thread, bleach- 
ed and unb.'eached linens, silk goods, copper, copper and 
brass, manufactured ; iron, iron and steel, manufactured ; glass 
and China ware, earthen and stone ware, gold, silvcT and pre- 
ctoJis stones, hats, caps, and bonnets, tin in sheets and plates ; 
all otlisCjT articles paying an ad valorem duty. 

PayinT e{irCifi<^ '"'*''* °f duty— Beer, ale and porter, bristles, 
cordage, cigars, Ci?^'f cocoa, coffee, cotton, copper and compo- 
sition rods, nails, &c. ,"ussia ravens, Holland duck, brown and 
white Ilussiasheeting, almJi'l^, currants, figs, prunes, plums, 
raisins in jarsaijd boxes, all o^''^^ '^uits, black quart bottles, 



UR1DG£S. I'j 

■■.vindow g'lass, hemp, indigo, iron and steel wire do. tact s, brads, 
sprigs, nails, spikes, anchors ; sheet, rod and hoop iron ; iron 
in bars and rods, manufactured by rolling', all other wrought iron, 
pig iron, and iron castings ; pig, bar and sheet lead, shot : 
molasses, olive oil in casks, dry ochre, ditto in oil ; white and 
red lead, whiting and Paris white, salt, nutmegs, cinnamon, 
mace, cloves, pepper, pimento, chives, cassia, spirits from 
grain and other materials, steel, brown and white sugar, tal- 
low candles, soap, cheese, bohea, souchong, imperial gunpow- 
der, hyson and young hyson, green and other teas, Madeira, 
sherry, St. Lucar, claret, Lisbon, Oporto, Tenej ifFe, Fayal, and 
other wines, amounting in value to 1^11,879,790. 

The total tonnage belonging to the Port of Philadelphia, on 
the 30th of June, 1322, was 74,405, and 79-95 tons, of which 
52,242 and 99-95 were registered (permanent), enrolled ton- 
nage, or vessels engaged in the coasting trade, above twenty 
tons, 22,150, and 91-95; and licensed tonnage of vessels unde^ 
twenty tons in the coasting and river trade, 3,012 and 74-95. 

PERMANENT BRIDGE. 

Erected over the Schuylkill, at the west end of Market oi' 
tligh street, is a strong, elegant and convenient structure, built 
by a company incorporated in 1798.- It consists of three wood- 
en arches, supported by two stone piers, with two abutments 
and wing walls. The western pier is sunk in a depth of wa- 
ter unexampled in hydraulic architecture, in any part of the 
world ; the top of the rock on which it stands, being 41 feet 
9 inches below common high tides. Both piers were built 
within coffer dams. The dam for the western pier was of ori- 
ginal and peculiar construction ; the design was furnished by 
■William Weston, Esquire, of Gainsborough, In England, 
a celebrated hydraulic engineer. Eight hundred thousand 
feet of timber (board measure) were emplo}'edin and about it. 
It was executed under the orders of the Building Committee 
of the Boaifl, consisting of the President, and four, and some- 
times five. Directors, by Samuel Robinson, of Philadelphia,— 
Every disadvantage to which such difficult undertakings are 
subject (the rock being in lundry parts nearly bare, and afford- 
ing no footing for the piles) opposed the progresa of this ■, 



16 BKIDGE5. 

so tiiat it coiilil not be ready for the masnnn,- urtil tlie 25th of 
December, when the first stone was laid, and tlie work conti- 
luiel to thelieight then proposed, during a severe winter. 

The stonework was done by Mr. Thomas Vicker, under the 
direction of the same committee, sometimes assisted by the 
treasurer in cases of emergency. 

The masonry is executed on a plan uncommon, if not new. 
The walls of the abutments and wing-s, arc perpendicular, 
without buttresses, and supported by interior offsels. These 
are found completely competent fo support the pressure of 
the filling', without battering or contreforts. The abutments are 
18 feet thick. The wing walls 9 feet at the foun^l:ition, retiring 
by offsets, till at the parapets they arc only 18 inches. The 
rastern abutments and wing- walls are founded on a rock. 
Tliose on the western side are built on piles. There are up- 
wards of 7500 tons of masonry in the western pier. Many of 
the stones composing' both piers weigh from three to twelve 
tons. A number of massive chains are stretched in various po- 
siUons across the piers. These arc worked in with the mason- 
jy, the exterior of which is clamped and finished in the most 
substantial and workmanlike manner. 

The frame of the superstructure was designed and erected 
b}' 'J'imothy Palmer, of Newburyport, Massachusetts. It is a 
masterly piece of workmanship, combining in its* principles 
that of king-posts and braces, with that of a stone arch. Half 
of each post, with the brace between, will form tlie vousseup 
t)f an arch , and I'nes through the middle of each post would 
describe the radia or joints. 

Tlie platform for travelling rises only eight feet from a ho- 
rizontal line ; and the top or cap-pieces are parallel to this. 
Of the Sections, the middle one has the mns.'., pressure, owing 1o 
the weight of fransportation being thrown nearer to that sec- 
lion, than towards the sides, to which the footways prevent 
its approach. Tliese foot-ways are five feet in width, elevated 
above the carriage ways and neatly protected by chains. 

Tiie workmanship of the covering the design of which was 
original, was performed by O. iViddle, of Philadelphia, agrcC' 
.^bly to a plan furnished him. 



Abridges, 



1? 



The underwork of the side covering is done in imitation of 
masonry, by sprinkling the work with stone dust on the paint- 
ing, while fresh. 

Commodious whar/es, on each side of the river, have been 
made, both with u view to profit and to protect the foundation 
of the abutments and wings. 

This bridge was six years in building, and cost about 275,000 
dollars, including the cash moiety of the purchase of the site ; 
for which g40,000 were paid to the city corporation, half in 
cash and half in bridge shares. 



Length of the bridge 
Abutments and wing walls . 
Total length .... 
Span of the small arches each 
Ditto middle arch . 

Width of the arch 

Curvature of the middle arch 

Ditto " of the small arches 

Curvature or size of the carriage way 

Height in the clear over the carriage way 

Height from the surface of the river to do. 

Thickness of the pier . 

Length of ditto .... 

Depth of water to the rock, at the western 
pier 

Dittto at the eastern pier 



Feet. 


Inches. 


550 


00 


750 


00 


1300 


00 


150 


00 


194 


00 


42 


00 


12 


00 


10 


00 


8 


00 


12 


00 


31 


00 


20 


00 


62 


00 


rn 

41 


00 


21 


00 



Amount of toll, when the work began, for the year 

1799, arising from the floating bridge . . !S5,000 

Amount of toll, on an average (1805) ; the rates of 
toll in several instances being lower than over the 
old floating bridge ...... 13,600 

During the time that the British had possession of Phila- 
delphia, in 1777, they had a bridge of boats across the Schuyl- 
kill at the middle ferry, one of which was sunk. The bridge 
company, in sinkingihe coffer dam, expended nearly two thou- 
B S 



18 ATHEN.EUM. 

sand dollars in getting- up this timber, before they could g-et 
their dam water-tight. In 1803 a gentleman, of a curious turn 
of mind, had the planks of this boat well plugged, and gave it 
to a cabinet maker, who constructed for him a very curious ta- 
ble, answering all the purposes of an escrut^ire. The wood 
was white oak. 

UPPER PERMANENT BRIDGE, 

Over the Schuylkill, below Fair Mount Water Works. 

This bridge was finished in 1813. The architect was Mr- 
Lewis Wernwrag. It is fifty feet and four inches wide at the 
abutments, thirty-five feet wide in the centre and three hun- 
dred and forty feet four inches span of a single arch, with 
lamps and footways. The abutments are of stone, and the 
bridge of wood, covered and handsomely ornamented, with pil- 
lars on each front, and toll-house on the east abutment. The 
span of the arch is said to be 96 feet larger than that of an}' other 
known to exist. It is the property of a company incorporated, of 
which Jacob Ridgeway, Esq. is President. The stock is divid- 
ed into shares of fifty dollars each. The president is the prin- 
cipal shareholder. The road to the bridge is f<rom Callowhill 
street in a north west direction, and crossing the bridge, leads 
into Mantua Village. 

ATHEN.ISUM. 

[INCORPORATED APRIL 1, 1815.] 

Kept in the Philosophical Hall, south Fifth street, mi the Stale 

House S(jtiare, 

This Association has for its object the procuring of news- 
papers, of different slates and countries, pamphlets, books, 
maps, charts, and of collecting historical and other monuments 
conaected with the history and antiquities of America, and the 
useful arts, and generally to disseminate useful knowledge. 

Its officers consist of a president, vice president, treasurer, 
secretary and librarian, and a board of 15 directors, besides a 
purchasing committee, committee of superintendance, and 
cemmittee of accounts, chosen annually. 



BANKS. 19 

The board of directors are annually chosen on the first 
Moiulay in February, by the stockholders in person. 

Tlie stock is 25 dollars per share, beside four dollurs a year 
in advance; and no share can be transferred until all arrearag-es 
are paid. 

Diplomatic characters, clergymen, and such foreign consuls 
as are not resident citizens of the United States, are admitted 
ffi-atis to the use of tiie rooms. Persons residing at a distanct 
of more than ten miles, introduced by a stockholder or subscri- 
ber, to the librarian, are admitted for one month, at each visit 
gratis. If remaining longer, upon being proposed by a stock- 
liolder, they can be elected for three months for three dollars, 
or six months for si.x. Each original or annual subscriber 
must write to the board that he intends to withdraw, having 
paid up all arrearages. This must be done before the first 
Monday in February of each year. 

The library contains about 3000 volumes and is increasing 
annually. 

The rooms are open every day and evening, Sundays ex- 
cepted, from November first to May first, from 8 o'clock 
A. M, until 10 o'clock P. M. and from the first of May to the 
first of November, from /o'clock A. M. until 10 o'clock P. M. 
The Officers for 1824, are— ' 

WILLIAM TILGHMAN, President. 

SAMUEL EWING, Vice-President. 

QUINTIN CAMPHELi., Treasurer. 

AVILLIAM M'lLIIENNY, Jr. Secretary and Librariau. 

NEW B.ANK OF THE UNITED STATES, 

Is situated in a North and South direction, fronting on Ches- 
aut and Library Streets, between South Fourth and South 
h'ifth Streets. 

In the design and proportions of this edifice, the leading 
eatures of that celebrated work of antiquity, the P.arthenonat 
Uhens are recognised. 

In selecting this example as a model, for a building, such as 
Bank, requii'ing a peculiar internal arrangement and distri- 



so UANKS. 

butlon of space andliglit, it becomes a difficult task for an ar- 
chitect to preserve all the characteristics of a Grecian Temple, 
wlioseoriginandappropriation was solely for the worship of the 
Gods, and for the deposition of public treasure. The peripte- 
rosor flanking columns of aTirecian building produces a deci- 
dedly beautiful figure in architecture ; but they cannot be ap- 
plied with their proper effect to places of business, without a 
(Consequent sacrifice of those principles which have a constant 
application to internal uses and economy. 

The design of this building of the Grecian Doric, character 
ised as Hiipaetheros, having eight fluted columns 4 feet 8 inches 
in diameter, embracing the whole front, taken from the Par- 
thenon or Temple of Minerva, Ilecatompedon at Athens, be- 
ing divested of the columnsof the peripteros and prondus of 
the sculptured metopes of the freize, and the basso-relievo fi< 
gures in the Hympanum of the pediment. 

The columns rise from abasement 6 feet in elevation, sup- 
porting a plain entablature extending along the sides of apara- 
lellogram 86 by 160 feet, including the body of the building and 
porticos that project 10 feet 6 inches from each of the fronts. 
The veri icle angle of the pediment is 152'' forming an uninter- 
rupted line from end to end of the ridge or apex of the roof. 

The ascent to the porticos from the Street is by a flight of 
six steps, to a terrace or platform, extending 16 feet on each 
flank, and in front of the edifice. 

It is on this terrace that the building is reared, and from 
which it derives a great portion of its effect. The gateways on 
the right and left, open into paved avenues, which extend 
from Chesnut to Library Streets, along each of the flanks, ser- 
ving CO insulate the building from surrounding objects, it being 
Inclosed along these avenues by a return of the iron-railing £X- 
hibited in the front elevation. 

Its length, including the Portico, is 161 feet, and breadth in 
front 87 feet. The floor of the principal or ground story is el- 
evated 9 feet, surrounded on all sides by a terrace 14 feet wide, 
rising three feet wide, and paved with large flag stones jointed 
together. The main entrance is from Chesnut Street, by a 



BANKS. 21 

fliglit of marble stepSj extending- aloncj the whole front of the 
Portico. 

The door in tlie centre opens into a larjje vestil)ule with cir- 
cilarends, embracing' the Transfer and Loan offices on the right 
and left, together with a commodious lobby leading to the 
banking room. 

The vestibule ceiling is a prolonged pannelled dome divi- 
ded into tiiree compartments, by bands enriched with the <iuil- 
loches springing from a projecting in-post containing a sun- 
ken frette. The pavement is tessilated with American and 
talian marble throughout. 

The Bankingnom occupies the centre of the building, being' 
48 feet wide, having its length 81 feet, in an East and West di- 
rection, and lighted exclusively from tliese asjjccts. Its leading; 
features present a double range of six fluted marble columns, 
22 inclies diameter, at a distance of 10 feet each from the side 
walls, .brming a screen or gallery for the clerks' desks which 
are placed within the inttrcolumniations. 

These columns are of the Greek Ionic order, with a full en- 
tablature, and blocking course, on which tlie great central and 
lateral arches are supported ; the central arch being semi-cy- 
lindrical, is 28 feet in diameter, 81 feet in length, and subdivi- 
ded into seven copartments with projecting concentric plat- ' 
bands over and of equal diameter with each column, the inter- 
vals being em'iclied with Square sunken moulded par.r.cls ; this 
ceiling is 25 feet from the floor to *^.z crown of tlse arch, exe- 
etit^c^ -ith great precision and effect. 

An Isthmian wreath, carved in one entire block of Penn.sylva- 
nian White Marble, surrounds the clock face, which occupies 
the space of the first panne) over the entablature in the centre, 
the design of wliich is copied from the reverse of an antique 
gem found at Corinth, and described by Stuart in his valuable 
work on the Antiquities of Atliens. 

The Tellers' counters are composed of marble, forming pan- 
nelled pedestals across each end of the banking room, com- 
mencing at the first column from each end of the walls. 

The Stockiiolders room is a paralellogram of 28 by 50 feet. 



■22 BAKKS. 

being lighted from the south front, having a groin arched ceil- 
ing, with projecting plat bands, enriched with the Guiiloches 
springing near the base of the groin angle, across the semi-cir- 
cular intrados of the arch. Each end of tlie room is ornamen- 
ted with niches eight feet wide, the heads of which form an ar- 
chitrave concentric with the semi-circular pannels in the tjm* 
panum of the shortest diameter. 

The committee rooms for the Stockholders', open right and 
left, flanked by two flights of marble stairs, leading to the clock 
chamber, and other apartments in the second story. The pri- 
vate stairway from the banking room leads to the directors', en- 
gravers' and copperplate printers' rooms, being lighted from 
the roof by a plain convex glass light, 20 inches in diameter and 
six inches thick, manufactured in Boston, the light being in- 
serted in a marble curb, is placed on the apex of a cone wbich 
perforates the arch above the stairway. 

All the internal door jambs, sills and imposts are of marble. 
The fire-places are principally under-the windows, and formed 
within the thickness of the external walls, and covered with thick 
cast-iron plates. 

The banking room is amply warmed by two cast-iron furnaces 
lined with fire-brick, being simply erected within an air cham- 
ber, through which the external atmosphere passes and be- 
comes heated by the furnace ; it then rises through the arch in- 
to a circular cast-iron pedestal, perforated on the sides, out of 
which it is suffered to escape into the room. 

The whole body of the building is arched in a bomb-proof 
manner from the cellar to the roof, which is covered with cop- 
per. All the groin arches are girdled at the springing line with 
iron straps, passing round within the body ot the division walls. 
This edifice is thus constructed as the only safeguard against 
the ravages of the incendiary and the no less fatal but inevita- 
ble attacks of time. 

Presidknt, JK'icholas Blddle — Cashiet?, Thomas Wilson — As- 
sistant Cashieh, John Andre-ws. — Discounts on Tuesdays and 
Fridays. Capital 35,000,000 dollars, in shares of glOO each. 
Twenty of the directors are chosen by the Stockholder.s, and 
five by the government of the United States 



BANKS. *:.■ 

PHILADELPHIA BANK. 

This bank has lately been rough cast, and presents to the eye 
a very handsome imitation of marble, which has much improv- 
ed its appearance. On the 28th of March, 182', the legisla- 
ture passed an Act extending its charter to the year 1839, on 
certain conditions. By this act the bank is directed to sub- 
icribe forfive hundred shares in the Delaware andChesapeake 
Canal Company, to be paid at such times, and in such instal- 
uents.as may be required by the said canal company, the divi- 
lends of which are to be received by the bank for fifteen 
rears from the date of the subscription, after which the shares 
lo subscribed for, are to be transferred to, and become thepro- 
lerty of the state. The bank is not required to pay any part 
)f its subscription until the Canal Company have expended 
two hundred thousand dollars in making the said canal. The 
governor is also authorised to subscribe for two thousand addi- 
ional shares in behalf of the state at paramount. The corpora- 
ion of said bank are prohibitedfrom re-issuing ai\y notes of as 
mailer amount than five dollars. The bank is to loan to the 
tate when required, at any time during the continuance of its 
iharter, a sum not to exceed one hundred thousand dollars at 
ive per cent, on a notice of sixty daj s being given, a refusal 
o comply with which annuls its charter. The monies thus 
oaned are to remain in bank subject to the order of the state, 
o be drawn as its exigencies may require. — Joas Reah, Presi- 
fen<— QuiNTiN Campbkll, Cashier. 

STRPHEN GIRARIVS BANK, 

In the old United States Banking House, Joseph RoBEnTS^ 
'Huskier. Discount dajs, Wednesday and Saturdays. Open 
laily from 9 A M.till 3 V. M. except Sundays, Fourth of July 
,nd Christmas. 

COMMERCIAL BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA, 

Chesnut street, No. 102. between Third and Fourth. Capi- 

ftl, S 000,0, '0. DiscoimtdaysTuesdaysand Frdays. Shares 

550 each. Open daily, except First of January, Fourth o^ 



BANKS. 



w 



•Tilly, Christmas and Siind;i\s. President, Anuuew Bataud— 
Cashier, Joseph Williajis : iiicorjioratcd Maich ^1, 1814. Elec- 
tion for Directors by ballot on the third Monday of November, 
annually ; dividends declared annually, on the first Monday of 
May and November. It is prohibited from issuing notes forkss 
than five dollars. Its cliartcr expires on the 1st of April, 1825. 
Capital, S 1000,000 in shares of fifty dollars each. 

MECHANICS' BANK. 

In south Third between Market and Chesnut streets, east 
side, was incorporated on the 21st of March, 1814, and its 
charter expires on the first day of April, 182J. The Institu- 
tion is prohibited, as is also tiie Commercial and Schuylkill 
banks, from expending, each, more than §50,000 on a banking 
house. It Is authorised to loan on proper securities, one-fifth 
of its capital to farmers, mechanics, and manufacturers, and 
upon 60 days' notice, one-tenth to the state at sL\ per cent, per 
annum for any term not exceeding five years. Dividends are 
made semi-annually on the first Mondays in May and Novem- 
ber. The total amount of debts which it may owe must not 
exceed double the amount of capital paid in. Should 
they exceed that amount, the directors consenting thereto, 
are liable i,i their individual capacities, and an action of debt 
can be brought jigainst them all, or any of their heirs, execu- 
tors, or administrators. Disco«nt days Tuesdays, and Fri- 
days. Joiis UoGTias, I'resideiit — Jonathan Smith, Cashier. 

SCHUYLKILL BANK. 

High street, corner of Sixth Street. Chartered Maich 21, 
1814. 

Discount days, Tuesdays and Fridays. 

The same observations apply to tliis, as to the Commercial 
Bank of Pennsylvania, and Mechanics' Bank, they being a Ichar- 
teredat the same time and under ilie same restrictions, Wat. 
Mereiiitu, Pvesident — J. Lewis, Cashier. 



BUILDINGS, 25 

BANK OF THE N()RTHER>7 LIBERTIES, 

Jn Vine, between Second and Third Streets, North side. 

The same observations apply tothisas to the ihree preceding 
Binks, chartered on the 21st March, 1814, and unde' the same 
i-estriciions. 

Discount days Tuesdays and Fridays. 

JouN Barclay, President— D. Mandevili-f., Caslder. The Act 
of the Legislature, which passed the 31st of March, 1823, extent 
ding its charter to 1835, limits its Capital Stoc ^ to 500,0UU dol- 
lars in shares of 50 dollars each, and sta es its capital stock ac» 
tually paid in at the extension of the charter, at 150,000 dollarso 

STATE ARSENAL AND ARMORY. 

Between Market and Chesnut, and Juniper and Thirteenth 
Streets. 

ThisTlepositoryforall military stores belonging to the state, 
is a substantial brick building, three stories high, covered witli 
slate, one hundred and fifty feet long by thirty -three broad, con- 
taining thirty -three separate apartments above the ground floor. 
The lower story is fire-proof, subdivided into seventeen apart- 
ments, three of which are occupied as an armoury for the makin 
repairing and cleansing of arms, the others for storage of heavy 
ordnance, &c. The upper stories are occupied for small arms, 
aad other military stores of which it contains, in good order, a 
quantity sulEcient io furnish from ten to fifteen Unmsand men. 
lu these departments the State has annually eight or ten per^ 
sons in employ. 

THE MERCHANTS' COFFEE-HOUSE, OR, 
EXCHANGE, 

No 86, South Second Street, next door South of the Bank 
^f Pennsylvania, from which it is separated by an alley, 

Is a plain brick and convenient building, three stories high, 
having a piazza in front which aflbrds a sheher from the storms 
of the different seasons, and a shade to protect from the sultry 
summer's sun. 

c 



26 WATER-\YOKIvS. 



CENTRE ENGINE HOUSE. 

This edifice, formerly the " Centre Engine House," in the 
Centre Square, is an exact square of sixty feet, having- a Doric 
Portico on the East and West fronts in Market or High Street; 
a circular tower of forty feet nses, terminated by adome ; the 
whole height is sixty -two feet. The building is faced with 
\vhite marble ; the dome is constructed of brick, laid in cement. 
The shafts of the portico consist each of one single block of 
marble, fourteen feet nine inches long, and two feet nine inches 
in diameter at the base. Since the construction of Fairmount 
Water- Works this building is in par" occupiedas a Watch-House 
for the Western part of the City. The south-east and south- 
west rooms in the basement story, the passage that leads to the 
elrcular parts above the same, and the roof was leased in De- 
cember, 18ir, by the city corporation for a term of seven years, 
for one dollar per annum, to the Philosophical Society for As- 
tronomical purposes. The Society were permitted by the or- 
dinance to remove and take away at their own expence, the 
whole or part of the arch forming the ceiling of the south-west 
in the basement stories, in order to construct a stairway leading 
to the roof, which roof was to be made a fiat terrace, not raised 
higher than the parapet walls, and in the circular part of the 
building to construct a floorto be on a level, or nearl}' so, with 
the terrace roof. They are to keep the parts demised in repair 
also at their own expence, and prohibited from making altera- 
tions which can change the external appearance of the bull- 
ding. 

FAIR MOUNT WATER-WORKS. 

• 
To give a description of them, we cannot do better than 
give our readers an extract from the report of the Watering 
Committee made to the Select and Common Councils : 

" The small and expensive supply ef water by the Steam 
Engines, induced the Watering Committee, in the fall of 1818, 
to inquire into a more economical means of furnishing the city, 



■ WATER-WORKS. 2? 

which it was found could be obtained by the erection of a 
dam and other works at Fair Mount, on the river Schuylkill, 
if permission could be had from the Schuylkill Navigation 
Company, who had an act of incorporation for the improve- 
ment of that river, and if the right of White & Gillingham 
to a water power at tlie Falls, about five miles above the city, 
could be purcliased. Both these objects, it was found could 
be obtained ; the first, oy an agreement with the Navigation 
Company to erect locks and a canal on the west side of the 
rivei", opposite Fair Mount, at the expense of the city ; and 
the other object, by a purciiase irom Messrs. White and Gil- 
lingliam, of their water power, for •5w,;'U.j dollars. 

"When arrived atthis stage, the subject was submitted (o 
the Co-..ncils of the City, whoimanim .isly approved the mea- 
sure and on the 19th of April, 1819, tlie work was commenced 
by Captain Ariel Cooley, with ^ bom a contract was made for 
the erection of the dam, the locks and canal, the head arches to 
the race, and the excavation of the race from a solid rock, for 
the sum of .15'-',000 doHars 

" The river is about nine hun Ired feet in width ; one fourth 
of which at the bottom, on the eastern side, is supposed to be 
rock- covered with about eleven feet of mud ; the remainder 
is of rock. The grt-atest depth is thirty feet at liigh water ; 
and it gradually shoals to the western sliore.where the rock is 
left bare at low tide The river, whose average rise and fall 
is six feet, is subject to sudden and violent freshets. 

"Mr Cooley determ.ined where rock was to be found, to sink 
cribs, formed of logs, about fifty feet up and down stream, 
by 17 or IS feet wide, which were sunk and filled with stone, 
eecurely fastened to each otI>cr ab ve low water, • aving the 
iip-stream side planked from he bottom to the top ; and the 
spac- immediately above, filiea to -onie extent, with earth, 
small stones, and other matter, to prevent leakage. In that 
part .vliere mud wasi"ou • t e dam is made oi quarry spalls 
and earth, and raised about fifteen feet higher than the other 
part of the dam, whicii s n ov; r-iall for . e water the base 
of this mound is at least one hundred and fifty feet, and its 



28 WATER-WORKS. 

width on the iop 12 feet ; and the whole of the top end of the 
up-stream side from the water edge is paved to the depth of 
•3 feetj with building stone, to prevent washing by water, and 
injury from ice. Between the mound dam and the over-fall, 
there is sunk, on the rock, in 28 feet water, a stone pier, 
twenty-eight fert by twenty-three feet, which svipports the 
end of the mound, and protects it from injury by ice or water. 
The contraction of the river by the mound d;un. suggested to 
Mr. Cooley the idea of fcrniing the dam in a diagonrd line run- 
ning up stream, and when nearly over to run the res; of the dis- 
tance at a right angle toward the shore, so as to join the head 
pier of the griard lock, on the western side, by which means a 
large over-fail was created, and the rise above the dam, in cases 
of freshet, considerably abated. The whole length of ihe over- 
fall is twelve hundred and four feet ; the mound dam, two 
hundred and seventy feet ; the head arches, which will pre- 
sently be mentioned, one hundred and four feet, making 
the whole extent of the dam, including the western pier, about 
sixteen hundred feet, and backing the water up the river about 
SIX miles. Tlie water power thus created is calculated to be 
equal to raise into the Reservoir, by eight wheels and pumps, 
upwards of ten millions of gallons ; the lowest estimate of the 
quantity of water afforded by the river in the dry season, is 
four hundred and forty millions per 24 Kours, and as it ia 
calculated, allowing for leakage, waste, &e. that forty gallons 
«ipon the wheel wili raise one into the Reservoir, the quantity 
raised would be eleven millions of gallons per day. 

" On the west side of the liver there is erected a head jiier 
and guard locks, whence there is a canal extending five liun- 
dred and sixty-nine feet to two cliamber locks, of six feet lift 
each, by which the boats .ascend or descend; below these locks 
there is a canul into the river four hundred and twenty feet 
long. The locks are bi;llt of dressed stone ; the upper canal 
is walled on the east side, and on the west it is rock ; the lower 
canal is formed of tJie stiff" mud of the river, and covered wiih 
stone. The wliolc of tlie outer front of the locks and canal is 
protected by a wall on tlie upper part, and en the lowev with 



WATER-WORKS. 29 

stone thrown on the bank to prevent ^v■ashing•. On the east 
side of the river the whole of the bank was a solid rock, which 
it was necessary to excavate to the width of one hundred and 
forty feet, to form a race, and a site for the Mill-houses, running- 
parallel with tlie river. The length of the mill race is four 
hundred and nineteen feet ; the greatest depth of the excava- 
tion, sixty feet, and the least sixteen feet ; the gunpowder used, 
alone cost the contractor upwards of twelve thousand dollars. 
At the upper part of this excavation were erected the head 
arches, three in number, which extend from the east end of the 
mound dam to the rock of the bank ; thus forming a continua- 
tion of the dam. 

*' On the west of the excavation are erected the Mill-houses, 
forming the west side of the race, which is supported on the 
other side by the rock rising above it seventy or eighty feet 
perpendicularly. The south end, or wall of the race is also of 
solid rock; and the Mill-houses are founded on rock, so that no- 
thing can be contrived more secure in all respects. 

" The race is about ninety feet in width, and is furnished with 
water through the head arches, which allow a passage of 
■water of sixty-eight feet in breadth, and six feet in depth, to 
which the race is excavatedbelow the over-fall of the dam, and 
of course room is allowed for a continual passage of 408 square 
feet of w ater. These arches are on the north of tlie race, and the 
mill-buiklings being on the west, the water passes from the 
race to the wheels!, which discharge the water into the river 
below the dam. The gate ofthe centre arch is upon the prin- 
ciple of a lock gate, and admits the passage of boats &c. into 
the race ; at the south end of the mill-buildings there is a waste 
gate, eight feet wide, by which (the upper gates being shut) 
tlie water can be drawn off to the bottom ofthe race. 

♦' The mill-buildings arc of stone, two hundi-ed and 58 
feet long, and fifty-sis feet wide. The lower section is divided 
into t'A elve apartments, four of which are intended for eight 
double forcing pumps. The other apartments are for the fore- 
bays leading to the water wlicels. The pump and forebay 
cliambers are arched with brick, arid are perfectly secure from 
C2 



30 WATERAVOUKS. 

the inclemency of the winter. Ihose now in use are kt|i' 
warm by means of twolarg-e iron stoves, healed with RchuyikilS 
and Lehigh coal. A gallery is erected, extending the whole 
length of the \jLiilding, from which all the wheels may be 
seen at one view. The centre part of the buildings is one hun- 
dred and ninety feet by twenty -five feet, with circular doors to 
the pump chan>bers, and a range of circular windows over the 
arch ways of the wheel rooms ; on a line with the cornice of 
the central part is the base course of two pavillions, with Do- 
ric porticoes,.which terminate the w est front. One of these is 
used for the office of the Committee ; and the otlier is the re- 
sidence of an old and faithful servant of the Corporation, who 
lias the general care of the property at Tair Mount. On the 
east front, immediately over the pumps and forebay rooms, is 
a terrace, two hundred and fifty -three feet long, and twenty- 
six feet wide, paved with brick, and railed, forming a hand- 
some walk along the race, and leading by steps at tlie end to 
the top of the head arches, mound, dam, and pier. 

" It being ascertained, that in the whole extent of the foun- 
dation along the race, under a six feet head of water, there is 
no leak, it has been from the commencement determined, for 
the present, to ei'ect only 3 wheels and pumps, whicli are now 
completed. The first of the v/hecls is fifteen feet in diameter, 
and fifteen feet long, working under one foot head, and seven 
feet fall. This was put in operation on the 1st of July last ; 
and it raises I J milhon of gallons of water to the Reservoir In 
twenty-four hours, witii a stroke of the pump of four and a 
half feet, a diameter of sixteen inches, and the wheel making 
«.'leven and a half revolutions in a minute. The second wheel 
tyas put in operation on the 14th of September last ; and is the 
same length as the first, and 16 feet in diameter ; it works un- 
der one foot head, and seven and a half feet fall, making thir- 
teen revolutions in a minute, with a four and a half feet stroke 
of the pump, and raising 1 1-3 million of gallons in twenty-fous 
hours. The third wiieel, whicli went into operation on the 
34th of DeceiTiber, 1822, is of the same size as the second, and 
fforks under th€ saiae head and fallj making thirteen rerolu- 



■VVATEFi-V/OnK?. 5i 

tions In a mimile, with a five feet stroke of iLc pump, and 
raising- 1^ milHou of gallons in tvventy-fou.r liouis. '1 !ie se- 
cond wheel can be made to raise an eqt;ul quantit)- ; thus iv.r.k- 
ing the wiiole supply upv aids of lour million of gaiioiis. ia 
twenty-four hours, 

" The wheels are formed of wood, and put together wit!) grcr.t 
strength. The shafts are of ircn, weij-^liiiig about five tons each, 
'I'he threat size and weii^r.t otihe wliccl tji^ e it a momentum 
which adds greatly to t!;e resjidarit} of its motion, so ncccssaiy 
to preserve tlie pumps from injury under so heavy a head as 
tliey are required to w oik, whicli is a wciglit of 7900 lbs. the 
height ninety-two feet. 

*' The wheels beiiig- sunk below the usual line of higli water, 
it might be supposed that they would be obliged to stop at that 
time; but this seldom happens, except in Ihe'spring lidos, at 
the full change of the moon, which, upon the avarage stops them 
about sixty-four times in a montli. It is found that they aie ve- 
ry little afTccted until tlie back water is about sixteen inches on 
the wlieel. 

" Tlie Pumps arc placed liorizontaily, and are wciked by a 
crank on the w;>tcr-v\ heel, attsch.ed to anitman ccnnected with 
the piston at the end of the sliJcs. Tliey are fed under a na- 
tural head of water, from the foiebays of the waier-wheel, and 
are calculated for a six feet stroke; but hitherto it has been 
found more profitable to wcik with net n.ore than five feet. 
They are double forcing pumps, and are ccnr.tcttd each of 
them with, to an iron main of sixteen inches diameter, which 
is carried along the bottom of the Face, to the rock at the 
foot of Fair !«.:ount, and thence up the bank into the new Re- 
servoir. At the end of the pipe theie is a stop-cock, which is 
closed when needful for any purpose. The shortest of these 
•mains is two hundred and eighty-four feet long : the other two 
are somewhat longer. The Reservoir next the bank is one 
hnndred and thirty-nine feet by three hundred and sixteen feet, 
is twelve feet deep, and contains three millions of gallons. It 
is connected at the bottom with the old Reservoir, by two pipes 
of twenty inches diameter, with stop-cocks, This reservoir 



32 WATER-WORKS. 

contains four millions of gallons. All tlie water being- raised 
into the Reservoirs, cue liUiidrcd snd twoleet abov. low tide 
and fifty-six fcetabovetlicliighest ground in the City, is thence 
convc} ed to the CAty. ^ 

" On the 24lh of (;)cto])er last, the steam-engines were stop- 
ped, and it is believed will never again be wtmted. 'I he sat- 
Isfactory test to which iiie Dam was exposed, on the -1st of 
lY-biiiary last, by an ice freshet, which rose eight feet above 
the ov,;r-fall of tlse Dam, and which is supposed to be the 
greatest that has been ever known in the Schuylkill, has 
• juicted all fears as to i;s safley, and done away all the objec- 
lions that ever coidd be raised to a resort to Water Power, 
where Nature had kindly done so much. 

*'ln another report, the committee will submit the usual es- 
timates for the coming year ; in this place, they deem it pro- 
per to state the cost of the wlicle work done since the Ordi- 
uancc passed, April ISih, 1919: — viz. 

Purchase of White and Gillingham, g 150,003 

Erection of the Dain, Locks, Head Arches, 
Race and Piers, including estimate ol dam- 
ages for overdowing by the Dam, 381,000 

Three Pumps, 11,000 

Mi!i-'iouscs, Niills, and other work connect- 
ed vith them, 71,250 

Iron Raising Mains, 4,480 

New P.escrvoir, 8,600 

Amounting together to . . . g 426,330 
"The cost of working- one steam-engine and pump for one 
year w as 30,858 dollars ; and it has been found, that with this 
expenditure, not more than 1,6^0,000 gallons could be raised 
in twenty-four hours ; a very inadequate supply for the popu- 
lati'iii of the City, consisting of above sixty thousand souls; 
withoui a gallon being afforded to the adjoining Districts, con- 
taining an equal number, and for whom until the present pe- 
riod, here was no provision except by means of wells. To 
raise an equal quantity with that at present afl'orded by three 
wheels, the cost would be upwards of 70,000 dollars ; but, cs- 



WATER-V/OKKS. ..j 

timatili^ the cost at only double tliut of one enf^ine, it will 
amount to 61,716 dollars. From this is to be deducted the in- 
terest on the capital expended in erecting the Water Power 
and Works, which was 426,330 dollars, and was pilr.cJ'pally uor- 
rowed at an Interest of fire j.-er cent., and amounts to 21,316 
dollars annually, and also the expencesfor wages, fuel, oil, &.c. 
estimated at 1,500 dollars annually, amounting together to 
23,816 dollars, which being deducted from the sum of 61,716 
dollars, leaves a clear annual saving of 38,900 dollars, equal at 
an interest of five per cent., toa capital of 778,000 dollars. 

" The Water Power is sufficient to work five wheels and 
pumps, in addition to the three in operation, which would raise 
an additional quantity ofmore than six millions of gallons. 

" The former inadequate supply of water, derived through 
the Wooden Pipes or Conduit, from Fair Mount, and the con- 
stant vexation and expense, occasioned by the bursting of those 
the streets, had long turned the attention of the Committee to 
the propriety of substituting Iron Pipes. 

•' bouic ncic jjiucured, and the Council determined to cont- 
inence the work with laying down a large Iron Main, from Fair 
Mount to the Junction of Chesnut and Broad Streets,for which 
an appropriation was made of 70,000 dollars : other appropri- 
ations have since been added for Iron Pipes. 

"The Work was commenced at the Old Reservoir at Fair 
Mount, into the bottom of which there was inserted a bell-muz- 
zle pipe of thirty inches diameter, tapering off to twenty -two 
inches; this size pipe was continued along Hunter Street, which 
was filled up to a proper level for the pvu-pose, at the expense 
of the city, and tlience on the old C;uuil Hank, as nearly level 
as possible, to Callowhill Street, 661 feet ; the Pipe waslhen 
diminished to twenty indies diameter, and continued along 
Callowhill Street to P.road Street, and thence along Uroad 
Street to Chesnut Street, 690!) feet. The opening into the 
Reservoir is closed wlien required, by a stop-cock, Tlie w hole 
quantity of Wooden Pipes, from Fair Mount and tlirough 
the City, was about tliirty-tuo miles in extent, all of v. hicli, ia 
process of time, v,-Ul have to be removed, ;uid Iron subslituttd 



34 CHURCHES. 

but, in the meantime, it has been determined to lay down some 
important Mains, evert where the Pipes do not actually require 
taking- up ; for instance there is placed a ten Inch Iron Main on 
tki c:;-.;t!i side ; f Chesnut Street, extending- from Broad to 
Water Street, and contruc-fs have been maclo far Pincss of the 
same sue, to be laid nexi season on the North side of Ctiesnut 
Street, which will thus furnish an ample supply to both the 
north and south part of tlie City. 

" In High street, 6 inch Pipes are laid on the south side, from 
Broad Street to Water Street, and are nearly completed on the 
north side, and will be entirely so, early in the Spring. Front 
Street, from C' esnut Street, with an eight inch Iron Main, is 
laid to Union Street, and will be completed early in the season 
from High to South Street, — the Pipes for both the above men- 
tioned sections being all prepared. Walnut from a little west 
of Sixth Street, to Water Street, is laid with six inch Iron Pipes 
find some other streets are laid partially, where it was found to 
be necessarj : the whole quantity of Iron Pipes now laid, is 
35,205 feet, artcl in no instance has a leak !><•<.., j^~— ^»«:u. 

«» The straight pipes are made in lengths of nine feet each, 
with what are called spigot and faucet joints other Pipes of a 
circular form, to pass round corners, are made of different 
lengtlis, as may be required with easy turns, by which it is ob- 
vious the passage of water is much fac^liated," 

The greater part of the Iron Pipes were made in the United 
States. Foreign ones only when the contructojs failed in their 
contracts, 

NEW JERUSALEM TEMPLE. 

[Rkv. Mil. Cakll, PAsroit.3 
[SmiCKLAjYD, AR CHITECT] 
This edifice is situated on the South-East corner of Twelfth 
and George Streets, one of the most conspicuous and respecla- 
ble parts of the City, being built in the form of a {)aralenogram, 
forty-four feel by fifty, and in the gothir, stv le. Both of the ex- 
terior sides and Western front are similarly arranged, contain- 
ing a large door in the centre, ten feet by sixteen, togethe; 



CHURCHES, 5.V 

With two recessed blanks, rising IVom the cascmcnl or floor 
line of the Clmrch, correspoiuling to, and Immediately over, 
these blanks, are small windows, in tlie form of across. 

The >, .illsare composed of brick-work, rough-casl andjoiiU- 
ed.'in imitation of frcc-stone, capped by a bold cornice :ind 
frieze, extending ronn<l the building, and supporting a parapet, 
embattled over the doors and recesses. The whole crow ncd 
by a surba-ed dome and lantern, which diffuses a strong, but 
soft and agreeable light throughout the body of the temple. 

The interior arrangement is simply composed of four rows of 
pews, capuble, with some benches around the walls, of contain- 
ing three hundred persons, witii a centre aisle. leading from the 
Pulpit. The side aisles separate the pews from the out-side 
walls, and form a pas«ag-c around the Church. 

The Eastern end of the Church, contains the pidpit, vestry- 
room, and library. The organ loft is immediately over the pul- 
pit, the whole being comprised between the circular line of the 
dome and the end of the wall. In the centre of tiiis wall, and 
between the library and vestry-rooms, is a gothic recess, ten 
feet wide, in wliich the ptdpit and reading desks are elevated 
about five feet from the floor of the church; which recess is di- 
vided into three compartments, and separated by mullions, 
that divaricate at the springing, and terminates in pointed ar- 
ches, intermediately pierced with tracery. The choir is situated 
on each side of the organ lofi, over the vestry-room and library, 
which is eleven feet in height, being ornamented on the seg- 
ment of the circle with pierced pannels, and relieved with pur- 
ple drapery, as a back ground. The dome is decorated with 
raised vertical pannels, a band round the sky -light, together 
with a cornice and frieze, well executed in stucco, being part- 
ly supported by tlie side walls, and intermediately by four large 
clustered columns, twenty-one feet in height. 

The lantern or sk3'-light is ten feet in diameter, of an octa- 
gonal form, and upwards of thirty feet from the floor of the 
church. It has glass on the top, as well as the sides, admitting' 
a great body of light into the church. 

The utility and convenience of lighting a public building in 
this manner does not alone consist in the uniformity and stea- 



ii cnuuciiES. 

diness of cfTect proJuceJ by a total exclusion of the Jlrect va}5 
of the sun, but combines a facility of ventilation of the most im- 
portant character to a larg-e assemblage. 

In this church from Dec. 25, i82l, to Dec. 25, 1822, the 
marriages were two; burials two, and baptisms twenty two.- 

Tliis Society are, in their tenets, followers of Emanuel Swe- 
(Jcnborg. 

ST. STEPHEN'S (episcopal) CHURCH. 

EUECTED AND CONSECRATED IN 1823. 

[^Rtv. J. Montgomery, Pastor.^ 

This gothic structure stands on the East side of Tenth, be-, 
■.ween Market and Chesnut Streets, and presents an appearance 
highly bold and impressive. Its extreme length, from East to 
West, is 102 feet. 

The Western front consists of two octangular towers, 86 
feet in height, carried up on the North and South angles, 
comprising five stories with windows and off-setts, terminating 
in an enibatlled parapet. 

Tiie curtain or space between the tower is 53 front by 60 
feet in height, and contains three doors of entrance, over which 
there arc three large windows, formed with a recessed arch, 
24 feet wide by 36 in height. On each flank are the windows 
of tlie North and South ailes, being separated by mullions into 
four compartments and decorated with pannelled tracery. The 
sash is composed of lead, and divided into small qnavies of 
g-lasa. 

The interior of the church has a vestibule or anti chamber, 
separated from the body of the building, which communicates 
w ith a stairway in each tower, leading to the gallery and or- 
gan loft. 

From the vestibide there ar£ three screen openings, corres- 
ponding with the outer doors, which lead into the aisles And 
pews. 

The pulpit and chancel form the principal decoration of the 
eastern front, being highly finished with reversed screen pan- 



CHURCHES. 37 

Xiels, tracery and clustered columns, supporting four project- 
ing canopies. There is a large window immediately behind 
the pulpit, flanked with recessed pannels, being intended to 
receive marble tablets (presented by Strickland, and gratui- 
tously sculptured by Struthers, marble mason of the church) 
upon which the Creed, and the Lord's prayer are to be sculptur- 
ed; this window and the recessed pannels are covered with high- 
ly enriched Gothic sofflts, supported by brackets projecting 
from the wall. 

The gallery screen is parallel with the sides of the church, 
connected in a semicircular form opposite the pulpit. It is en- 
riched with perforated tracery and pannel work, and lined 
with purple drapery. It is supported by clustered columns ; 
the front reed of each column rising above the capital and ter« 
minating in a canopy, on a level with the top rail of the screen, 
From the upper part of the intervals, between the windows 
of the flanks, spring the massy ribs which sustain the ceilipg. 
Each rib is supported by brackets, and terminates in a key or 
pendant, the spandrels being pierced with pannels. These 
ribs, brackets and pendants, being regularly disposed along the 
ceiling, dividing it into many compartments, form a rich and de- 
cidedly beautiful perspective effect, particularly when view- 
ed from the east or west end of the church. The organ loft 
or choir is situated on the western front, in the rear of the cir^ 
cular pews of the gallery : it is large enough to contain Sft 
choristers, and is amply lighted by three front windows. The 
ground floor contains 122 pews ; the gallery 54 ; making a 
total of 176 pews. 

The building is warmed with a Lehigh coal furnace, built 
in the cellar. It is the intention of the building committee 
to embellish the windows with stained glass, and to crown 
the Towers in front with Agee Domes, and the appropri- 
ate cross, ball, and Yane. 

The building, thus completed, will present a correct speci- 
men of the Gothic architecture of the middle uges. It was 
consecrated by the Right Rererend Bishop WhitPj February 
27, 1823. . 

D ' 



33 CHURCHES. 

ST. ANDREW'S (Episcopal) CHURCH. 
[IIAVILA^'D, ARCHITECT.] 

Was consecrated by the Right Reverend Bishap White, on 
the 31st of May, 1823. This edifice is situated in Eighth 
near Spruce street. Its front is to the east, and its main 
entrance from Eighth street. Its length. Including the Por- 
tico and Vestry room, and base of the Spire, is 130 feet, and 
its breadth 65 feet. The front is one of the most perfect 
specimens of the Grecian Ionic Order, taken from the Temple 
of Bacchus at Teas, formed of six fluted cohimns in ensiyle, 
v.'ith a strictly copied entablature, charged with all the enricli- 
tnent and members of the original. The proportion of the 
iijpamtm is one sixth part of its triangular base. The entrance 
is by a flight of six marble steps, (extending along the whole 
front,) through a cantral door 14 feet wide and twenty-five 
feet high, subdivided into seven horizontal compartments of 
four pannels each. The fascias of the pannels are bold, and 
enriched with the c^g^ moulding; the stiles and rails are stud- 
ded with rivets, giving the whole the character of strength. 
The conveniences of the internal part of the church, con- 
nected with this door, render it impossible to open it to the 
top : it is therefore contrived to open only the three lower 
sections, and the four upper ones remain stationary. Passing 
this door you enter into the Vestibule, fifteen feet wide, by 
Voirly-tliree feet long, terminating at each end in a screen of 
folding doors that communicate with the gallery and side 
aisles of the church; rendering it at the same time private and 
convenient. The ceiling of the vestibule is divided into three 
divisions. The central point is groined with a simple roseat 
at its crown, and separated from the lateral barrelled arches, 
by a band enriched witli the gviloche springing from imposts 
from either side of the fron*^ door. At the extremities of the 
vestibule, right and left, are formed geometrical staircases equal 
in diameter to the width of the vestibule. A private door is 
inserted under each fligl,\J of stairs. These open into the body 



CHUnCIIES. 59 

<ji" the church opposite the side aisles and correspond to two 
rear doors. The Nave is sixty-one feet, wide and sixty-nine 
feet lon^, and is planned with a middle aisle six feet six 
inches wide, and two side aisles, each four feet six Inches 
wide. 1 he pews arc disposed in simple paralellograms run- 
ning- east and west ; tliree classes of four, five, and six seats 
each, allowing eighteen inches to each sitting. The hack is 
inclined, and the seat made at right angles with the back. — 
The general appearance of the pews is that of a Grecian lounge. 
The partition next the aisle is formed by a low door and a carv- 
ed scroll which is bronzed. In the upper pannelof the pedestal 
of the pew is inserted the number in Roman numerals, bronzed. 
The lower pannels of the door and pedestal are made square 
with a double fascia corresponding to the compartments in the 
ceiling. This feature, together with the arms, affords a pleas- 
ing perspective at the first entrance in the pionuos. The backs 
of the pews are stuffed and all lined throughout the church 
with one uniform colour of marono, made for the purpose since 
the commencement of the building. 

The front of the gallery in its length east and west Is divided 
into five equal divisions formir.gone elongated panel, each en- 
riched with the guiloche and egg moulding. The columns are 
composed of a cluster of palm leaves for flutes, turning over at 
the top and forming the capital. Over each is introduced a 
wreath, the whole is bronsed, and supports a light entablature. 
The pews in the gallery are so elevated that the Minister can 
be seen with case, whilst in the reading' desk. The transverse 
partitions which run up and down, are in scrolls, interlocking 
each other and painted of a bronze colour. The v-fhole of these 
are painted of a 'delicate stone colour. 

" In the west end of tlie church facing the main entrance, 
are placed the Rostrum and Chancel. The whole entrance 
is seventeen by twenty five feet. The principal feature in 
this design is two large columns with their pilasters and en- 
tablature of the Grecian Ionic Order, taken from the Tem- 
ple of Minerva Folias, at Athens, and hi-re executed with 
i*:s enrichments in full, without the slir^htest deviation 



40 CHUnCHES. 

irom the proportions given in Stewart's Athens. In the 
frieze of the entablature is inserted in gold letters, " Holiness 
becometh thine Horise, O Lord forever." 

" The Communion Table is composed of a beautiful piece 
of Italian marble, ten feet long', supported by two bronzed 
scrolls and enriched with the honey suckle and g^^ mouldings 
— the whole forming a finish to the Reading-desk, the wings of 
Avhich are composed of two bronzed Cariatides supporting a 
light cornice composed of a single ovato moulding reversed. 
This is gilt and forms a line from the centre of which two gil- 
ded consoles spring and support the desk en which the 
book rests. The front of the reading desk is about three 
feet high and ten feet long, relieved by the figures at each 
end with a beautiful specimen of American marble, inserted 
ns a ground between them. The centre space immediately 
under the desk is hung with rich scarlet velvet, dressed 
with gold lace fringe, and emblazoned with an uncommosv 
superb " Glost," fornted of massy bullion — the proportion 
and form of this feature is intended to give a pleasing diminu- 
tion to the pulpit as 8: group terminating in a pyramidicalforra 
as a centre. 

" The pulpit is six feet square, and surmounted by a gil- 
ded cornice of the eggmoulding and earvetto, which rises 
like a tympanum in the centre, and affords an appropriate sit*, 
nation for the introduction of the Dove, wliich is here introduc- 
ed as a crown to the whole, descending in rays of gold. Tfte 
dove is of silver, beneath this as a cornish, a ricli festoon of scar- 
let drapery is suspended with a ground of pleated crimson. The 
stairs into the pulpit are in the rear, convenient to the vestry 
room, and concealed from view — tlie whole is enclosed with 
a rich perforated railing, ciirved into honey-suckles and husks 
alternate, corresponding to the screen of the organ gallery. 

" The organ gallery occupies the whole of the Church, 
immediately over the vestibule; and can accommodate seven- 
ty persons. The front of the organ is 14 by 16, representing a 
CJvecian lyre standing on the pedestal of the design, betweers 



CHURCHES. 41 

a cluster of pipes forming themselves into a tower surmounted 
by leaves and a vase at each wing, with a wreath as a base. 
The centre is terminated with a 'glory with the words LAUS 
DEO under it. The face of this design is finished in geld and 
bronze, and is one of the most pleasing features in the 
Church. The church is to be finished with aspire ?30 feet 
high, a considerable elevation of which will be erected during 
t}us present season— the base of this spire affords a commodi- 
ous vestry-rooni school room and other desirable accommoda- 
tions. The church is to be warmed by a furnace in the celftir 
purporting to conduct warmth by tubes into e\ery pexv. 

" The size of the lot on which the church is erected is 
extensive, and will be laid out for vaults and other burial 
places." 



ST. JOHN'S (episcopal) CHURCH. 

[Rev. Geouge Boyd, Rector.] 

Is a large neat brick Building, situated on the South side of 
Brown Street, between St. John Street and liose Alley, North- 
ern Liberties, Built in a tasty stile, with two columns and a 
portico in front, and parapet walls, in front of which is a brick 
wall of about two feet in height, surmounted with Iron railing. 
Its windows are large and handsome. To this building a cem- 
ctry is attached. From Dec. 25, 1821, to Dec, 25, 1822 the 
marriages belonging to this Church were 12; baptisms 25 • and 
burials 9, 



ROMAN CATHOLIC. 

St. Joseph's Church in "Willing's allej', has been enlarged 
27 feet, and since the unhappy differences existing between 
the Kev. Bishop Conwell, and a majority of the Congrega- 
tion of St. Mary's Church, divine service is performed every 
Sabbath as in the other Catholic churches. 
D2 



CHURCHES. 



SECOND UNIVERSALIST CHURCH, 

Til Callowhin between Old Fourth and Fifth streets, Nor- 
thern Liberties, has been incorporated under the title of " The 
Second Independent CImrch of Christ," and is a plain brick 
building except the front, which is rough cast, in imitation of 
marble, extremely well executed, with portico and doric front. 
It is sixty feet by eighty feet deep and thirty-four feet six 
inghes to the caves. The interior ornaments are of fret woik, 
with pulpit in front handsomely decorated. The centre row 
of pews are double, and single rows on each side with three 
aisles. It was consecrated to the worship of Almighty God in 
the early part of October last. 

SOCIETY OF THE UNITED BRETHREN, OR 
MORAVIANS. 

This religioxis sect, of which Doctor Mease has given an ac- 
count, have caused their old building, erected in 1742, to be 
torn down, and on the lot have erected a neat new building, 
from the design of Strickland, fifty two feet long, forty -two 
wide, and twenty-eight feet high to the eaves of thereof. Its 
front door is in the centre of two windows above. On the side 
of Moravian alley it has a double row of windows, three and 
a door below, and four above. It has also a gallery. The 
interior is neatly decorated. The Rev. Mr, Harman, a gentle- 
man from Rhode Island, is its present pastor. From December, 
25th, 1 821, to December 25th, 1822, the number of marriages 
■were nine, tliat of Baptisms twenty-seven, and of Fu- 
rials one hundred and sixty -one, during which time the bap- 
tisms had decreased eighty, and the burials increased ten from 
the preced ng year. 

THE ASSOCIATE CHURCH, WALNUT 
STREET. 

The professed principles of this church are those of the 
Jcformatipn. Adhering to the scriptures as the supreme ant'. 



CHURCHES. 45 

infallible standard in religion, this church takes her ground, 
in doctrine, discipline, worsliip and government, upon the 
establishmentof religion in :icotland between 1638 and 1650 
which she holds to be the present period of the Scottish 
church. 

To this church is annexed, by appointment of synod, a TIic- 
ological seminary for the purpose of training youth for the ho- 
ly ministry, in this Seminary, lectures, critical and elementary, 
on the Hebrew Language are given. A course of lectures on 
systematic divinity is annually delivered, and the chronology 
and Geography of the scriptures are particularly explained. 
The seminary is open to students of other denominations, 
and twelve students attended last session. Under the divine 
favour it is humbly hoped, that this seminary may be useful 
for dissseminating the knowledge of the original languages, 
and of sound divinity. 

FIRST PRRSBYTKRIAN CHURCH. 

Corner of Locust and Seventh Street, opposite Washington 
Square. 

lRev. James Wilson, Pastor.] 

The example of [onic order, here introduced, is taken from 
that beautifid and chaste specimen of Grecian Architecture, the 
Ionic Tesnple on the river llissus at Athens. The Church is 
eightv-elght feet by sevent\-one including the Bows. The ves- 
tibule and ]>rlncipal entrance thirty-seven feet by thirty-two. 
Girls' an.-l Boys' School-Rooms, each tweniy-t ■ o by sixteen feet 
six inches. Three double rows of pews; two inside aisles 5 feet 
Cinches. Two exterior isles three feet six inches The pul- 
pit is a segment of aclrclt- at the south end — Portico with six 
columns Ionic. The Church is warmed by four stoves, and the 
vestibule by two. Two pair of gallery stairs. Cupola and a 
large Bell. The old Church, in Market between Second and 
Third Streets, was torn down during tlie year 182 '. and the lot 
sold. The new one was here coustructed on a more convene 
f;Dt site, 



44 CIIUnCilES. 



NINTH PRESBYTERIAN OR SECOND ASSO- 
CIATE CKURCII. 

[Rev. Ma. M'Innis, Pastck.] 

Is a neat brick EiiiiJing-, with a double range of windows, the 
windows ure in the Gothic stile. It has parapet walls, is in 
Thirteenth between High cr Market aiid Arch Streets, on the 
West side. It was built in 1814, by the last Will of Margaret 
Duncan, deceased. 

NEW MARKET BAPTIST STREET CHURCH. 

[Rev. Mil. Ghiffin, Pastou.]] 
This is a plain neat building of brick, erected in 1317, in New 
Market Street, on the West side, a few rods North of Noble 
Street, Northern Liberties. From the 25th of December 18«;i 
to the 2Jih of December 18:;2, the marriages belonging to the 
Congregation were 80 ; and interments 18. 

NEW METHODIST CHURCH. 

In North Eleventh St. north-east corner of an alley running 
from North Eleventh to North Tenth St. between Vine and 
Callowhill St. This is a small neat brick building erected in 
18.2. 

THE METHODIST CHURCH. CALLED SALEM, 

Is a neat plain brick Building erected in 1821, on the east 
side of South Thirteenth, between Spruce and Pine Streets. 

THE GERMAN REFORMED CHURCH, 

Is a large plain brick Building erected in 1819, in St. John 
Street, between Tammany and Green Streets, on the west side. 
The Rev. F. W. Vandersloot, Pastor. It has a double row of 
galleries. There is nothing rem.arkable in its architecture. The 
number of baptisms from Oct. 25, 1821 to 1822 was 44; of bu- 
rials thirty-three. 



CHURCHES. 



MOUNT ZION. (see mease.) 

formerly a Frame Biiilding, in Christian, corner of South 
Fifth Street, under the care of Elder Elias Smith, now a new 
Brick Building, plain, small and neat, without gallery, under 
the care of Elder Frederick Flumef. This sect is composed 
of dissenters from all others and whose only creed is an adher- 
ence to the scriptures. 

THE MENONISTS OR DUNKERS, 

ttave a place of Worship on the East side of Crown, between 
eallowhill and Wood Street, a few doors below the former. It 
is a small plain Brick Building, sufficiently large to accommc- 
date its Congregation. 

FIRST AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH, 

Constituted in 1809, and founded in 1816, is a small low brick 
Building without gallery, and not finished in the interior, situ- 
ated on the West side of Nortii Thirteenth Street, between 
Race and Vine Streets. Pastor, Mr. Simmons, The deaths iit 
this Congregation were for twelve months, ending on the 25th 
of December, 1822, — ten; the marriages, thirteen; the bap- 
tisms, fourteen. 

FIRST AFRICAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 

Is a plain brick Building, sufficiently large, erected in 1811, 
on the East side of Seventh between Catharine and Christian 
Streets, Southwark. 

THE AFRICAN WESLEYAN CHURCH, 

In Lornbard between Fiftli and Sixth Streets, under the care 
the Right Hey. Richard Alien, Bishop, and his assista t Rev. 
Wm. Cornish, is a plain b.ick Building, forty-two feet broad by 
sixty feet long and about thirty feet high to the eaves. It was 



46 SOCIETIES. 

■built in 1820. From the 25th of December 1821, to the25tU 
of December 182 , the baptisms were twelve, ami the burials 
fifty -five. In the African Methodist Church in South Sixth near 
Lombard Strei:t, called Bethel under the care of Bishop Allen, 
during the same period the marriages were eighty-three ; the 
baptisms fourteen and burials tw enty-five. 

FUEL SAVING SOCIETY. 

It is a well t^nown fact that the high price of fuel in the in- 
clement season of the year is generally paid by the poorer class 
of society ; the rich always provide themselves with that ne- 
cessary when it is most abundant in market, and when they al- 
ways select the best at the cheapest price by buying in quanti- 
ties. To remove the general distress occasioned by those cir- 
cumstances which weigh so heavy on the worthy and industri- 
ous poor, this society was brought mto existence by provident 
and philanthropic minds. The plan is adapted admirably to re- 
lieve distress, [nthe better part of the seasons of Spring, Sum- 
mer and Autumnfires are seldom wanted exceptingfor cuUnary 
purposes; the necessary habiliments for the warmer months are 
not expensive, and the industrious poor can sometimes spare 
from their slender earnings, when placed in deposit, enough to 
enable them to be comfortable during the heavy storms and 
frosts of winter, when otherwise they would have almost sunk 
under the cheerless weight. The Society has been formed 
•with this only view, to alleviate human misery llesides the 
usual officers of Institutions of this kind, men of known probity 
and character are annually selected, who have their offices, 
stores or counting houses in convenient parts of the city and sub- 
urbs, to receive deposits from the class of society intended to 
be relieved from twenty -five cents per week and upwards until 
the first of November. After that period all new depositors 
must await the benefits of the Institution until the succeeding 
year. The Wood is purchased when it is cli^apest in market, 
drawn to convenient places from which, when the inclement 
weather demands, it is sold out to depositors entitled thereto, at 
first cost and charges, no one depositor being allowed to have 



SOCIETIES. 4i' 

more Uian a half coru every fortnight. The deposits for the 
jear 1822, were made by three hundred and forty families, of 
which number a hundred and fourteen were at or under ^2,50; 
a hundred and forty from g2,50 to §5; seventy one from §5 to 
BIO; twelve from glO to Ql5 and three from §15 to ^20. 
There are eight receivers in the City ; two in the Northern Li- 
berties, and three in Southwark. 

This Institution has been in operation for upwards of three 
years. 

ROBERT RALSTON, Presideht. 

GKORGE HEYL, Secbetaut. 

MUSICAL FUND SOCIETY. 

This Society holds its sittings in Carpenters' Hall. It gives 
occasional performances. Its object is a pecuniary relief from 
the corporate funds in favor of the class of professors; the class 
of amateurs, the other of the two classes into which the society 
is divided, partake not of its pecuniary benefits, which are de- 
voted to the relief of decayed musicians and their families. To 
be entitled to monied aid the applicant must have been three 
years a member prior to his application for rehef. This society 
was incorporated in 1823, and its officers consist of a President, 
Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and twelve managers of 
ihe fund of" the institution. The election for officers is held an- 
nually, and when no election is held legally according to the 
provision of the charter, that instrument becomes void. The 
benefits to the class of amateurs arise, besides the pleasure de- 
rived from coiUributingto the relief of distress to declining age 
and sickness, is from the occasional private pcrformanees of 
the members in the room in Carpenters' 11.111. elevated to their 
sittings, a pleasure commensurate with their honorable views, 

SAVING FUND SOCIETY. 

This Society went first into operation on the Second of De- 
cember, 1816. It has established a Savin?*- Bank in which are 
made small deposits from time tol^me bv industrious individu- 
als. This society disposes of its funds in the most advantageous 



■4S SOCIETIES. 

manner possible, and after defraying its iucidenttil expences, 
divides the surplus profits among the depositorii in proportion 
to the amount of their deposit. Every deposit must be made, 
however, a certain kng-th of time before it can be entitled to 
draw an interest. Two weeks notice must be given before 
any monies can be drawn out of Bank. It is situated in Deca- 
tur Street on the West side, and is a private building. Its first 
President was Andrew Bayard, and George BUlington its first 
Secretary and Treasurer. 

PENNSYLVANIA COMPANY 

For Insurances on lives, and granting Annuities. Capital 
^500,000, Shares glO*^ each. Dividends semi-annually in Jan- 
uary and July. Charter perpetual. Robert M. Patterson, Pres- 
ident ; Eu^cfnus J\-ulei/ Secretary. Office No. ir3,Chesnut St. 
opposite the State House. Incorporated in 1^12. 

THE PHILADELPHIA FIRE ASSOCIATION. 

Was incorporated March 27, 1820, for the purpose of sup- 
porting the Engine and liose companies and originally com- 
posed of eleven Engine and five Hose companies with power 
to insure Houses from loss by Fire. The capital stock con- 
sists of the property and funds of the association in the hands 
•of thirteen trustees, together with the sums which are accumu- 
lating from deposits, premiums, interest and other sources, no 
<listribution of which is to take place excepting In payment of 
Josses, until the capital shall have amounted to g : 5,000. The 
property of the companies is pledged for the acts of the trus- 
tees,*who, however, are made personally liable for all dama- 
ges arising from insurances when such shall amount to more 
than the capital.stock of the association. If any loss occasion- 
ed by one fire or more than one (happening before the extin- 
guishment of the first) shall amount to more than the whole 
slock, a dividend of the «tock is to be made just and propor- 
tionate, according to the sums respectively insured among the 
saflTerers. The members of the association have the privilege 



NORTHERN DISPENSARY. , 4'J 

of insuring' at five per cent, less than other persons. Other 
Kngine and Hose companies, are admitted members of the as- 
sociation upon such terms and regulations as shall be prescri- 
bed by the above companies original members of the associa- 
tion. 

President, Beiijamin Thaw. — Treasurer, Caleb Carmalt; of- 
fice. No. 241, Mulberry or Arch Street. 

THE APPRENTICES' LIBRARY COMPANY. 

Hall in Carpenters' Flail, Carpenters' Court, running from 
Chesnut between the Post Office 116 and llSChesnut Street, 
between South Third and South Fourth Streets. 

This institution was established for the benefit of the Ap- 
jirentices of Philadelphia, and incorporated, April 2d, 1821. 
Its estate is limited to a clear and annual income of not more 
than S3000. It is under the direction of a President, vice Pres- 
ident, Treasurer, Secretary and a board of 24 managers, to 
be elected annually, of which the said President, vice Presi- 
dent, Treasurer, and Secretary are cx-officio members Members 
of the institution pay 2 dollars annually or 25 dollars to be con- 
sidered a member for life. The books are lopned to such ap- 
prentices and young persons, at the discretion of the mana- 
gers, as shall give satisfactory security for the safe return of the 
books and payment of fines for default, or loss and injury that 
may be sustained in the books so loaned, 

NORTHERN DISPENSARY, 

It is a private building, was instituted in 1816. It is at present 
located and attended by an Apothecary, at No. S75 North Front 
Street. It is principally supported by donations. During the 
year 1823 there have been under the cdre of Physicians atten- 
ding the Institution up to the first of October, 1076 patients, 
and 5000 prescriptions have been issued therefrom. Its bene- 
fits have been always dispensed to the sick of the laboring poor; 
and the diseases have generally been of the remittent and in- 
termittent kind. The managers have extended their car j to the 
E 



^0 . PENITENTIARY. 

distance of two and three miles, and provided suitable convey^ 
ances for the daily attendance of the Physicians appertaining to 
the institution. During the month of September 1823, from three 
to four hundred were admitted under its care. 

CHRIST CHURCH HOSPITAL. 

(See page 247 of mease's picture, for 1811.) 

Has been removed to a commodious neat and handsome brick 
Building three stories high, built for the purpose, in 1818. It 
was founded in 1783. 

NORTHERN LIBERTIES' COMMISSIONERS 
HALL. 

Is a plain but convenient brick Building, three stories high 
and rough cast, situate in North Third, between Tammany and 
Green Streets, east side. No. 323. 

NEW PENITENTIARY. 

This edifice is now erecting at the corner of Fulmers lane 
and Francis Street. The probable estimate of its cost including 
the purchase of site, will not exceed §300,000. With regard 
to its structure, the editor is indebted to the politeness of the 
Architect, J. Haviland for the following description, or the 
plan on which it is now building, as agreed upon by the board 
of Commissioners. 

Description of Haviland* s Plan for a Penitentiary. 

With regard to the plan and proportion of the several build- 
ings that form the design, the drawings and mode are better 
calculated to cenveya more correct comprehension of its mer- 
its than any written description: it is however necessary to ex- 
plain and give sucli information of the properties of the design 
as cannot otherwise be well understood. 

From a knowledge of the design, it will be found in its gen- 
eral arrangement and parts in detail, to embrace strength, con- 



PENITENTIARY. 51 

venlence, health, economy, and other desirable properties of 
the Institution. 

In the distribution of the cells into a general form, I have ma- 
turely considered the advantages and objections to every geo- 
metrical figure, but cannot find any one so well adapted to ac- 
complish the main objects of the institution, as the one I have 
made choice of in the plan before you. It appears to me 
to be a form that possesses many advantages in the watching, 
health and superintendence of the Prison, by the distribution 
of the several blocks of Cells forming so many radiating 
lines to the Observatory or Watch-House, which is equal 
in width to one of those blocks : From the centre of this room 
a watchman can, from one point, command a view of the ex- 
tremity of the passages from the cells, or traverse under cover 
unobserved by the prisoners and overlook every cell ; when 
they are exercising in theiryards, the same watchman, by walk- 
ing round on a platform three feet wide, to be constructed on 
the outside of this watch-room, situated on a level with the first 
floor, as may be seen in the drawingSj the watchmen can see 
Into every yard and detect any prisoner that may attempt to 
scale the minor walls; but if the cells had been formed on the 
periphery of this octangular, or any other figure, they would 
have screened any prisoner in attemptirg to scale the exterior 
wall -, it would not have been capable of extension, if desired 
at any future time, as the present figure, is, and rather have a 
tendency to obstruct than promote ventilation; but this disposi- 
tion of the Buildings, it will be observed, admits and circulates 
the fresh air, let it come from what point it may, and are more 
convenient to the structure where the cooking and other bu3i= 
ness of the Prison is transacted. 

These seven blocks of cells are of the most simple form, be- 
ing paralellograms which by their disposition possess all the ad- 
vantages of a polyglon figure without the expence attending it. 
Each building contains thirty-six cells, twelve feet long, eight 
feet wide, and ten feet high, each. The partition walls be- 
tween tlie cells are calculated to be eighteen inches in thick- 
ness, their foundation three feet deep : the wall next the pas= 



52 PENITENTTARV. 

sag-e is of similar thickness and depth ; the exterior wall to be 
2 feet 3 inches thick and 4feetbelow the level of the yard, in 
each cell there is a floor of masonry 18 inches in thickness, on 
which is proposed to be laid long curb-stones, ten inches thick, 
that extend the whole width of the cells and terminate under 
the partition wall, which would effectually prevent escape by 
excavation. The windows are inserted inthe barrelled ceiling", 
and formed by a convex reflector of 8 inches diameter, termed 
(kadf^yes; this would be found to give ample light to the cells, 
from a position the best fo.r ventilation and the admission of 
light, and a desirable one from its being out of the reacl; of the 
prisoners climbing up to escape, or converse from one cell to 
that of another; this glass is hung up at the apex of a cast iron 
cone that is securely fixed in the solid masonry of the ceiling, 
and would be found a cheap and excellent window. A simple 
bed is provided, that is proposed to be hungagalnst the wall to 
which it is made to button in the daytime, with the bedding 
enclosed in it, out of the way. It will be understood that thQ wall 
next the passa^^ con'ainSj annexed to each ceil, a feeding draw'^ 
er and peep-hole: the drawer is of cast iron, six inches deep and 
sixteen wide, projecting of sufficient depth into the cell to 
form, when closed, a table of twelve inches from the surface of 
the wall on the inside, from which the prisoner will eat his 
meals. This drawer on the back is intended to be made witU 
a stop, that when drawn out by the Keeper in the passage, for 
the purpose of depositing food, or raiment, closes the aper- 
ture behind, and consequently preveivts the prisoner seeing 
the superintendant, or receiving by this opportunity anything 
but what is intended for him. By this means all tlie conveni- 
enfces of a door are embraced, with more security and privacy, 
and at a considerable less expence than by the introduction of 
one, which would facilitate the evil of the prisoners conversing 
from one door to another, and defeat in a great measure the 
object of solitary confinement. 

A hollow cone of cast iron is fixed securely in the ^^■all, with 
»ts apex next the passage, from which small aperture oi i- of ati 
ix\c\\ in diameter, you can command a view of the cell unob,. 



PENITENTIARY. S3 

served by the prisoner; a stopper is slid over this peep-hole, 
and fixed on the outside, so tiiat no person can make use of it 
but the superlntendant. The doo' of the entrance is next the 
yard, properly secured with the most approved fastenings and 
provided with a wrought iron grated door, in addition to a 
strongly framed wooden one: this ^' ooden door being kept 
open in the summer, or when occasion may require, permits 
the fresh air to pass into the cell, and the iron grated one se- 
cures the prisoner ; there is also a strong iron door intended to 
be fixed on the outside wall of the exercising* yards. In dispo- 
sing of the necessary accommodations of each cell all with econ- 
omy, security, and convenience, there is nothing so difficult to 
arrange to advantage as the means of conveying away the filth 
where the. main object of the institution is solitude. Various 
have been the plans suggested and adopted in similar cases j 
but they have failed more or less in their purposes : it is of the 
first importance that a contrivance should be adopted whereby 
the contents of the privy should be discharged the least liable 
to emit any unwholesome air from the conveyance, or prove 
the medium of conversing from one cell to another. Escape 
has been effected by the facility these plans have afforded for 
conversation and other improper intercourse ; such are the 
evils that have hitherto attended the adoption of them. A well 
to each cell, it is obvious would be unadvisable ; and to con- 
struct it in the yard would be useless and inconvenient. A por- 
table pan would destroy, in a great measure, solitude, from the 
consequent attendance every day in the cell to remove it; with 
these views of the properties of the privy, it will be seen how 
far I have perfected this important appendage to the cells. 
From a reference to the sections and plans it will be perceived 
a reservoir is constructed in the centre of the prison under the 
floor of the VVatch-House, arched over of sufficient capacity for 
the purposes of the Jail, from this basin of water are disposed 
underground, out of the reach of the front, seven cast iron 
naain pi^es or sewers, say of eight inches diameter in the bore, 
one immediately positioned under the centre of the passage 
as shewn in the plan, into which is connecctcd a pipe offoui' 
E 2 



54 PENITENTIATIY. 

inches diameter, from each cell of sufficient height to reach 1:6 
inches above the ficor of the cell, the water being introduced 
into those pipes, is by means of a ball-cock, in the reservoir, 
reg'ulated to a height level within six inches of the seat ol'ihe 
privy in the ccl! ; by this means the pipe is always ^ ept fuli of 
water, that prevents tlie prisoners from speaking through them, 
and the return of any foul air into the cell ; it naturally dilutes 
the water that falls and of course desu-oys its power of corroding' 
the iron pipes. At the extremity of each block of cells is fixed 
a sluice-gate that stops the water and lets it oft' as often as may 
be found necessary, by which means the filth of the pipes are 
effectually cleansed with rapidity and ease; and by stopping.it 
fills the pipe instantaneously with a fresh supply of water, the 
dirt is carried into a common sewer, and conducted into the 
culvert of the adjoining street. 

The ventilator of the cell, shewn in the drawing is in the 
form of a funnel stationed three feet over the seat of the pri- 
vy, with a small pipe, six inches in diameter, connected at its 
apex, through v.hich the air passes from the cell, through the 
"ceihng into the open air. The passages are amply lighted and 
ventila'cd by a circular window at each end, four feet in diam- 
eter, and six conical windows in the ceilings. The arched 
ceilings of the cells and passages form a solid roof of masonry, 
possessing many advantages over a roof of wood; it is warmer 
in winter and cooler in summer ; is the saving of several thou, 
sands of dollarsby its substitute of the wooden one that would 
require a groined ceiling in addition to it. Whereas this acts 
as both, and admits of the window in the ceiling of the cells — 
the benefits arising fri>m which 1 have already spoken of: these 
roofs may be covered with copper, or a cheap and durable ce- 
ment impervious to water. 

The cells are heated by hot air suppliedfromtwo stoves con- 
structed in the rooms at the end of the buildings next to the 
observatory- ; by these means the objectionstothe introduction 
of a separate fire-place to each cell is removed, and less super- 
intendancc effected with greater economy, security and pri 
-acy. 



I'ENITENTIARV, 53 

A covered way is introduced from each radiating' bnildingof 
the cell^ to the centre, for the convenience of superintending 
the prisoners, and conve}ing their food in bad weather: this 
clieap screen is covered with a shlng-led roof, and enclosed by 
weather-boarded sides, in which are inserted windov s, and 
finished with a floor, as may be seen by a reference to the 
drawings. 

The centre building forms a cover for the reservoir, its base- 
ment is a general watch house, and the room over it is a cham- 
ber for the accommodation of the under-keepers and watch- 
men: at the outside of the building on a level with this floor, 
a platform is designed for the purpose already described, a 
bell is hung in the roof for tlie watchmen and domestic pur- 
poses of the institution. 

It is of the first importance in a building of this nature that 
it shovdd be conveniently and securely watched : to effect this 
the observatory and alarm bell should be in the power of the 
keeper, commanding the whole prison, and particularly the 
entrance which is confined to one aperture — this hasbeen hap' 
pily affected in the front building, to promote it, rhe internal 
buildings of the prison have been as few as possible, and plac- 
ed so as not to obstruct the sight from the observatory. 

A multiplicity of biiildings scattered about the site, is here 
avoided, as they are objectionable, serving only as hiding pla- 
ces to assist escape. It will be perceived by the present plan, 
that the offices for cooking, washing, and other domestic pur- 
poses of the prison are disposed in the basement of the front 
building; by this arrangement the internal part of the prison 
is rendered more solitary and secure, and no domestic is suf- 
fered to proceed further into the interior, than the private yard 
of the keeper, except at meat, or watching periods, when he 
"would be accompanied by one of the officers of the prison 

The dimensions of tlie rooms and the purposes for which they 
are applied is expressed in the plan, and the rooms in which 
those who are to be employed to do the work of cooking, bak- 
ing, &c. are disposed in the left wing, with a yard and privy 
annexed to it for their accommodation ; the rooms in the riglit 



56 PENITENTIARY. 

wing are applied for those purposes in which female domestics 
are generally iinployed, such as the washing, ironing, &c.; 
they are also provided with a separate yard and privy. The 
access to those rooms in the basement, from the entrance is 
by a flight of steps that descend on the right, and on the left by 
a similar number of steps you ascend to the rooms on both 
sides on the first floor, wliich is seven feet above the level of 
the ground, and entrance over the bake-room, kitchen, &c. 
The rooms in the left side, are appropriated for the officers of 
the prison, such as the commissi(jners', clerks' and turnkeys* 
rooms, as thereon expressed: they are of suitable dimensions, 
_ and i)laced in the most appropriate position ; the rooms on the 
right side, corresponding to those on the left, are to be used 
as expressed on the drawings, for the keeper and turnkeys' 
purposes, &c. by which it will be perceived that care has been 
ta:^en to dispose conveniently of such rooms, or stores, that 
require the eepers' particular attention. 

In tlie centre room over tlie entrance is placed the apotheca- 
ry's room,- it would be found the most convenient, and central 
situation, either for the use of the prison or infirmary, as yoii 
can have access to it from eitlier side; with regard to the infirm- 
ary it is placed to occupy the second floor of the left wing ; It is 
the most healthy and any situation, is convenient for the care 
of the keeper, has a private entrance; this department requires 
some particular explanation, for it would appear from the plan, 
as it is under the same roof to be connected with the rest of the 
building; but, on the contrary, it is a distinct and separate fire- 
proof section, without any door, window, or other aperature 
connected with the other rooms of the building, provided with 
a private stone stair-case, and entrance from an external door 
in the rear, and approachable only through this entrance, ex- 
cept in time of alarm, when the keeper can pass over from his 
chamber, through a fire-proof door into the apothecary's room, 
thus it will be seen that in case of any contagious disease in the 
infirmary, there is no chance of infection to the residents of 
the front building. The advantages of this plan will be easily 
«onceived, for all the accommodations that are contained in this 



PENITENTIARY. 57 

front building are placed in their most desired situations, wllh 
the economy of one roof, and its front wall. 

On viewing the elevation of the principal front, it will be seen 
with what success the designer has attempted to unite a sim- 
plicity of style, with that character the nature of the building 
required, assisted by the walls on each side of the centre. The 
whole front externally has the apearance of an extensive and 
solid edifice. By their means I have been enabled to give a 
just and proportional effect to the whole front, that would oth- 
erwise look mean, and unfinished without it. 

The octagon towers at the angles afford a happy and char- 
acteristic termination to this design. At the first glance it may 
strike the beholder with being an expensive building ; but it 
must be understood that even the building that constitutes the 
centre of this front is but of two stories, and of only one room 
deep, finished with a simple shed roof, the highest part of 
which is beneath the parapet of the front wall, and its eave slo- 
ping to the rear wall twelve feet below the front : it must be re- 
collected also that the accommodations contained in this build- 
ing are indispensible to the Institution, and if erected without 
a front building, it will be attended with a cost in themselves 
considerably more than by the plan here adopted, and decid- 
edly in a more objectionable situation, forby this means we are 
enabled to connect convenience with a beautif'id exterior, and 
the difference of cost but trifling to the whole expenditure, as 
may be judged of by a reference to the estimates. 

One strong entrance in cbaracter with the Architectural com- 
position, is a conspicuous feature in the front; it is designed to 
have a strong stationart- wrouglu iron grating or fortculles over 
the gateway, which affords ht^ht to the entrav.ce : between it 
and the rear gate is sufficient room for a team and wapcon to 
stand, that will admit of the keeper's securing the front gats 
previous to the opening of the rear one. 

An alarm bell is buns? in the circular tower, over the apothc- 
cary's room, with access to the extreme heitrht, or roof of 
this belfry, from which situation you can command and qvci'> 
look the whole prison. 



58 PENITENTIARt. 

The triang-ular lot of groundtinted green on the plan is de- 
signed for a kitchen garden, to raise vegetables for the use of 
the prison ; it will have a salutary effect on the air of the en- 
closure. The watch tower's command, from their height and 
position, thp inside and outside of the external walls ; their en- 
trance is by means of two strong doors, hung of a sufficient dis- 
tance apart, to allow of entering the outside one, and securing 
it previous to opening the inside one. 

The exterior wall is estimated at thirty feet high from the le- 
vel of the ground on the inside, .nnd covered with an inclined 
coping that projects on the inside four feet, that will frustrate 
any attempt to climb over it. 

Every window in the front building is constructed with an 
iron grating, and the doors well boltetl and locked, on ihe most 
improved plan ; and every other necessary precaution adopted 
to render the prison secure. 

J If in this explanation any particular part of it has been omit- 
ted, it will be found expressed in the drawings and estimates, 
where every effort has been made to make the whole as expla- 
natory as possible. 

Respectfully submitted, by 

Your Obedient Servant, 

John Haviland, Architect. 

The corner stone of the front building of the Penitentiary 
was laid on the 22d day of May, 1823, in the presence of the 
Commissioners, Architect, Superintendent, and Workmen. On 
this intere.'iting occasion, Mr. IJobert Vaux, said, that he much 
regrettedthe unavoidable absence ofthe'President of the Board, 
in whose place he had just then been unexpectedly desired to 
say a few words concerning the purpose for which the Commis- 
sioners were assembled. 

He remarked that the occasion was calculated to awaken 
reflections at once painful and gratifying. Painful, because 
such was the erring character of man, so ungovernable were 
his passions, and so numerous his propensities to evil, that it 
was necessary society should provide means for the punishment 
of offenders against its laws. Grati/ijin^, because a correct 



PENITENTIARY. SO 

view of human nature, coupled with the indispensable exercise 
of Christian benevolence, had led to the melioration of pun- 
ishments. Justice was now mixed with Jtferct/, and whilst the 
community designed to teach offenders that the way of the 
transgressor is hard, it wisely and compassionately sought to se- 
cure and reform the criminal by the most strict solitary confine- 
ment. This Penitentiary was designed to accomplish these im- 
portant ends, and when it shall be completed it will afford the 
first opportunity here of putting in efficient practice the penal 
code of this State. Mr. Vaux, congratulated his fellow citizens 
of Pennsylvania, because their Legislators were the first (al- 
most forty yeai's ago) to abolish those cruel and vindictive pen- 
alties which were in use in the European countries from which 
we had descended. The Pillory, the Whipping Post, and the 
Chain, were not calculated to prevent crime, but to famliarise 
the mind with cruelty, and consequently to harden the hearts 
of those who suffered, and those who witnessed such punish- 
ments. The substitution in Pennsylvania of milder correctives 
had excited the notice and respect of nations abroad, as well as 
of our sister Slates — our example had in some instances been 
followed, and he had no doubt the principle would more ex- 
tensively prevail. 

The box deposited in the corner stone of this building which 
you have seen laid, contains a metal plate bearing the following^ 
inscription : — 

PENITENTIARY, 

FOR THE EASTERN DlSrRICT OF THE STATE OF PENKSyL- 
VANIA. 

FOUNDED 

Agreeably to an Act of Assembly passed on the 20th day of 
March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 
twenty-one. 

JOSEPH HKTSTER, Governor, 

ANDREW GREGG, Secretary of the Commonwealth. 



60 . PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

TJNDER THE DIRECTION OF 

Thomas Sparks, Pirsz'f/t'/i/. "^ £ rjamesThackara, 
Samuel K. Wood, Sec'ry. I | William Davidson, 
John Bacon, Treasurer. '^ g J George N. Baker, 
Thomas Bradford, Jr. ?"| \ Coleman Sellers, 

Caleb Carmalt, | S | Robert Vaux. 

Daniel H. Miller, J ?S L 

John Haviland ..Jr-chiteci. 

Jacob Souder, Snperintendant of JMasonry. 

It only remains for us, said Mr. Vaux, in conclusion, to ex- 
press our desire, that this institution may fully answer the im- 
portant purposes for which it is founded. 

THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

Schools for the free instruction of the Children of the Poor, 
vipon the Lancasterian system, were founded by an Act of As- 
sembly, in the' year 1818. The law constitutes the City and 
County of Philadelphia, the first School Disti-ict of the State, 
and divided it into four sections, in each of which Schools are 
established, under the immediate care of Directors. From these 
Sections the Directors elect Controllers, to represent them in a 
select bod)', called the Board of Control, to whom is committed 
the general superintendence of all the Schools, and to whose 
direction the fund, and expenditure thereof, is enti-ustcd. The 
means for the support of this establishment are derived from 
the Treasury of the City and County of Philadelphia. Since 
the foundation of this system 9528 children have partaken of 
its benefits.— According to the report of the Controllers for the 
year ending in February, 1823, the number of pupils attending 
the Public Schools was 2747, of whom 1528 were boys and 



1219 girls, viz. 


Boys. 


Girls. 


Tojals. 


In the Model School, 


217 


210 


427 


Lombard Street, 


224 


165 


389 


Noi-therr. Liberties, 


185 


111 


296 


Kensington 


165 


201 


362 


Spring Garden, 


116 


23 


139 


Southwark, 


^13 


245 


558 


Moyamensing, 


182 


157 


339 


Mary Street, (Coloured) 


130 


107 


237 












1528 


1219 


2747 



MAYORS AND RECORDERS. 



6) 



The annual cost for the education of each pupil is less than 
four dollars. They are taught Reading, Writing, and Arithme- 
tic, &c. and the girls are also instructed in Sewing, Knitting, 
&c. The Contrellers and Directors of these Schools serve 
without any pecuniary recompence. 

CONTROLLERS 



Representing the 
First Section. 



2d Section. 



3d Section. 
4th Section. 



Secretary — Thomas M. Pettit. 



fRoberts Vaux, President of the Board, 
J William W. Fisher. 
] John Wurts. 
i,John Keating. 
K John C. Browne, 
i Jacob Justice. 
C George M'Leod. 
C Andrew Hooten. 
Joseph B. Norbury.. 



A List of all the Mayors and Recorders, from the first 
incorporation of the City of Philadelphia. 



MAYORS. 




RECORDERS. 


j^Qg} Edward Shippen. 


i701> 

1702 C Thomas Story. 


1703 Anthony Morris. 


17033 


1704 Griffith Jones. 


1704;) 


1705 Joseph Wilcocks 


1705 C David Lloyd 


1706 Naihan Stanbury. 


1706 S 


J^g^^ Thomas Masters. 


1707"! 
1708 




1709 Richard Hill. 


1709 




1710 William Carter. 


1710 




1711 Samuel Preston, 


1711 




1712 Jonathan Dickinson. 


1712 




1713 George Roch. 


1713 




1714;) 


1714 




1 715 C Richard Hill. 


1715 


^Robert Asherton 


17165 


1716 




1718 i Jo^^than Dickinson, 


1717 
1718 




1719-) 


1719 




1720 CWm. Fishbourne. 


1720 




17213 


1721 




1722 James Logan. 

1723 Clement Flumsted. 

F 


1722 




1723„ 





62 



MAYORS AND RECORDERS. 



MAYORS, 

1724 Isaac Non-is. 

1725 Wm. Hudson. 
1726-7 Charles Read. 
1727 



1728 
1729 
3730 
1731 

1732 
1733 
1734 
1735 
1736 
1737 
1738 
1739 
1740 
1741 
1742 
1743 
1744 
1745 
1746 
1747 
1748 
1749 
1750 
1751 
1752 



Thomas Lawrence, 
> Thomas J. Griffitts. 

- Samuel Hassel. 

Thomas Griffitts. 
Thomas Lawrence. 
Wm. Allen. 
Clement Plumsted. 
Thomas Griffitts, 
Anthony Morris. 
Edward Roberts. 
Samuel HasselL 
Clement Plumsted. 
Wm. Till. 

Benjamin Shoemaker. 
Edward Shippen. 
James Hamilton. 



} Wm. 



Atwood. 



Charles Willing-i 

Thomas Lawrence. 

Wm. Plumsted. 

Robert Strettell. 

Benjamin Shoemaker. 
1753-4 Thomas Lawrence. 
1754-5 5 Charles Willing. > 
1755 I Wm. Plumsted. 5 

-t-rry C Atwood Shute. 

1758 Thomas Lawrence. 

1759 .John Stamper. 
Benjamin Shoemaker. 
Jacob Duche. 
Henry Harrison. 
Thomas Willing-. 
Thomas Lawrence. 



1760 
1761 
1762 
1763 
1764 
1765 
1766 
1767 
1768 
1769 
1770 



John Lawrence. 



Isaac Jones. 



^Andrew Hamilton. 



yWm. Allen. 



I Samuel 



Shoemaker. 



RECORDERS. 

1724') 

1725 S ^°^*^t Asherton. 

1726- 

1727 

1728 

1729 

1730 

1731 

1732 

1733 

1734 

1735 

1736 

1737 

1738 

1739 

1740 

1741=^ 

1742 

1743 

1744 

1745 

1746 

1747 I 

1748 j 
1749J 
1750-1 
1751 

1752 VTench Franc 

1753 [ 

1754 J 
1755-^ 
1756 
17.57 
1758 
1759 
1760 
1761 
1762 
1763 
1764 
1765 
1766 
1767 
1768 
1769 
1770„ 



^Benjamin Chew. 



MAYORS AND RECORDERS. 



MAYORS. 

John Gibson. 

Wm. Pisher. 
Samuel Rlioads. 
Samuel Povvel.* 
Samuel Powell, 
Samuel Miles. 
John B.iiclav. 



RECORDERS. 



1771 
1772 
1773 
1774 
1775 
1789 
1790 
1791 
1792^ 

1793 i 

1794 ^Matthew Clarksoi). 

I795J 

1797 S ^^'^""y Baker. 

1799 S Robert Wharton. 

1800 Johnlnskeep. 
1801->| 

\lll ^Matthew Lawler. 

1804 J 

1805 John Inskeep. 

1806; 

1807: 



Robert Wharton. 
John Barker. 



Robert Wharton. 
Michael Keppelle, 
John Barker. 
John Gever. 



1809 
1810 
1811 
1812 
1813 
1814"^ 

1815 I 

1816 )-Robert Wharton, 

1817 I 
1818J 

1819 James N. Barker 
1820^, 

1821 1 

1822 )>Robert Wharton. 

1823 I 
1824J 



Benjamin Chew. 



i 

^^ Alexander Wilcocks. 

I 



1 



1771-] 

1772 I 

1773;. 

1774 j 

1775J 

1789 ■>! 

1790 

1791 

1792 

1793 

1794 

1795 

1796 

1797 

1798 

1799 

1800-lJ 

1801-2 Alexander J. Dallas. 

1802 

1803 

1804 

1805 

1806 

1807- 

1808 

1809-10 

1810-\ 

1811 

1812 

1813 

1814 

1815 

1816 

1817 VJoseph Read 

1818 

1819 

1820 

1821 

1822 

1823 

1824 



).Moses Levy. 

I 

Mahlon Dickerson. 



* In the year 1776, the corporation was dissolved, in conse- 
quence of the Revolution, and the City remained unincorpora- 
ted until 1789. 



t,4 ORPHAN SOCIETY, 

List of Aldermen, of the City of Philadelphia, with the 
Date of their Commissions. 

s^obert Wharton, October 11, 1796. 
John Inskeep, May 21, 1799. 
Andrew Pettlt, October 22, 1801. 
Matthew Lawler, October 22, 1801. 
John Geyer, August 1, 1811. 
George Bartram, April 30, 1813, 
Joseph Hertshog, February 11. 1814, 
Samuel Badger, July 24, 1815. 
James N. Barker, April 2, 1817.. 
Peter Christian, March 4, 1818. 
Abraham Shoemaker, April 8, 1818- 
William Duane, April 23, 1822. 
Joseph Watson, April 23, 1822, 
William Milnor, Dec. 1822o 
JohnBinns, 1823. 



THE ORPHAN SOCIETY OF PHILADELPHIA, 

Was instituted, December 20tb, 1814. The Asylum for the 
orphans is situated on the north east corner of Cherry and 
Schuylkill north Fifth Streets. This society consists of an As- 
sociation of Ladies "to rescue from ignorance, idleness, and 
vice, unprotected and helpless children, and to provide for 
them, that support and instruction which may eventually ren- 
der them valuable members of the community." The society 
meets annually on the first Tuesday in January, when tweifty- 
four managers are chosen, in whom the concerns of the society 
are invested. Fifteen members are competent to the transac- 
tion of business at the annual meeting. The officers are the 
Board of Managers, who choose a first and second Directress, 
a Secretary, and a Treasurer. The qualifications of member- 
ship are, an annual contribution of two dollars, or thirty dollars 
for membership for life. A Governess capable of performing 



ORPHAN SOCIETY. 65 

the duties of the station is chosen ; she is enjoined to inculcate 
all the obligations, which, in the various stations of life, the or- 
phans owe to God and their fellow beings, paying particular at- 
tention to religious worship, industry Jhd a strict regard to 
truth. 

The children are required to attend the annual meetings of 
the society; to attend worship with the Governess every Sab- 
bath, and at a proper age, are bound out in suitable places. 

Children received into this Asylum, must be divested of the 
legal control of their Guardians, or other persons who may have 
them under charge, by subscribing to a written declaration to 
that effect. 

The first meeting of the Board of Managers', was held on the 
21st of December, 1814. All the Managers were present — the 
officers were chosen, and the necessary rules and regulations 
adopted. A convenient house was renred, as a temporary Asy- 
lum, and a Matron and female attendant chosen to supenntend 
its domestic concerns. The first orphans were admitted into 
the Asylum, on the 3d of March, 1815. And on January 2d 
1816, amounted to twenty-two, who were comfortably accom^ 
raodatcd. 

An act of incorporation was duly obtained, dated January 29, 
1816; and Sarah Ralston, was appointed first Directress , Julia 
Rush, Second Directress ; and Mary Yorke, Treasurer ; Susan- 
na Latimer, Elizabeth McLean, Rebecca Gratz, Abigail II, 
Warder, Hannah Parker, Eliza Denman, Sarah Henry, Marga- 
ret Latimer, Ljctitia Buchanan, Elizabeth Abercrombie, Deb- 
by II. Malcom, Elizabeth Haskins, M. Aramina E. Smith, Sarah 
Bacon, Hetty Markoe, Ann L. Eyre, Rebecca Ralston, II, 
Phihps, Mary Richards and Juha Rush were .ippointed Mana- 
gers until the next annual election. 

The permanent fund consists in the life subscriptions, which 
are to be regularly invested into some productive property. 

The lot of ground on which to build the Asylum, valued at 
JgSOOO, ninety feet on Cherry Street, and one hundred and 
thirty-four feet on Schuylkill north Fifth Street, vk'as presented 
by Messrs. Samuel Archer, Samuel Richards, Samuel Weth- 
srill, jun. and Robert Ralston^ 
F2 



66 <0RPHAN SOCIETY, 

The most magnificent of the donations to the institution was 
five thousand dollars, from Thomas Montgomery and George 
Latimer, executors of Robert Montgomery, deceased, being the 
part of funds left irt their hands directed to be employed for 
charitable purposes. 

A purchase of a lot of forty feet, fronting Cherry Street, 
gave a front on Cherry Street of loOand a depth of 134 feet to 
a Street in the rear of the building. 

The Lancasterian system of education has been introduced. 
The new Asylum was completed in 1817, and the Orphans re- 
moved thereto. During that year fifteen were admitted, and 
one death occurred, leaving a total of fifty. In the building was 
a chapel for worship, in which divine service was performed 
every sabbath. Besides the usual elementary branches of ed- 
ucation, the girls are taught knitting and sewing, and the boys 
knitting, except the#ime devoted to other duties and to re- 
ci'eation. 

The area of the building -was fifty by fifty-three feet, three 
stories high, exclusive of the basement story and a ceiled gar- 
j-et, calculated to accommodate from two hundred and fifty to 
three hundred children, comfortably. During the year 1818, 
one was put out to service, one died, and twenty -four were ad- 
anitted, making the total seventy-two, the greater number of 
■whom were girls. In the year 1819, fifteen were admitted, 
two died and one was put out to service, leaving the number 
of eighty -three in the asylum. In the year 1820, ten were ad- 
mitted and four indentured, giving the number of eighty-nine. 
The knitting done by the children, chiefly of the younger class, 
produced besides supplying the family, the sum of §162,73. 
By the increase of donations towards this beneficent institu- 
tion, the area of the lot on which the building stood, is exten- 
ded in front on Cherry Street 130 feet, and in depth to Race 
Street 288 feet. During the year 1821, sixteen were bound 
out, one died, and seventeen were admitted, leaving 89, the 
same as the preceding year. 

On the morning of the 24th of January, 1822, this building 
vas consumed mih all its contents, and twenty -three Orphans 



ORPHAN SOCIETY. 67 

perished in the conflagration. The fire oi-iginated in the N, W. 
corner of the kitchen, in the basement story, from the impro- 
per arrungement of the m.tsonry in -which theboiler luas placed. In 
consequence of this calamity, a temporary residence was obtain- 
ed in Market, west of Broad Street, to which tlie Orphans were 
removed. 

The Legislature made a grant of 5000 dollars, to assist in re- 
building the edifice, which with private munificence of 27978 
dollars from various quarters, both in the city and from a dis- 
tance, enabled the building committee to commence its recon- 
struction. On the 13th of December 1822, an attempt was 
made by two of the Orphans to set fire to the temporary asy- 
lum in Aiarket Street, but happily the attempt failed, and the 
little culprits were judiciously disposed of. The new building 
was ready for the reception of its intended inmates, in the 
month of January, 1823. The cost of its construction and ma- 
terials was 25000 dollars. The annual expenditure of the insti- 
tution is stated at 3000 dollars for every hundred Orphans. The 
plan of the present building was presented by Mr. William 
Strickland, who superintended its erection. It is situated at 
the N. E. corner of Schuylkill Fifth and Cherry Streets, cover- 
ing the former site, and is one hundred by fifty -three feet, fron- 
ting the west, and consists of a " basement, principal and attic 
stones. In its construction every attention was paid to conve- 
nience and durability ; the materials being of the best kind 
and the workmanship done in a sound, substantial manner. The 
basement being arched throughout, renders the first and se- 
cond floors completely fire-proof, as also is the stair-ways which 
are of stone from the foundation to the btd-room floor. All 
the rooms in the attic story have an immediate communication 
with the large hall and stairs, thereby affording the utmost safe" 
ty to its numerous tenants." It is calculated to accommodate 
two hundred persons. 

During the year 1822, fourteen were admitted, sixteen bound 
■:nit,andtwo died of diseases which resisted tlie physicians' skil!, 
ieaving a family of sixty -nine Orphans, 



INSTITUTION 

For the relief of Children afflicted with the diseases incident 
to summer was established in 1818, since when more than two 
hundred have been relieved. The Board of Health have gran- 
ted the use of apartments in the City Hospital for that pui'pose. 
The requisite accommodations and medical attendance are fur- 
nished ^ra^js to those who have not the ability to pay. 



MARKETS. 

Few cities in the world, are better supplied with Market- 
houses well stored with the necessaries of life, than Philadel- 
phia. In addition to the picture of the city, given by Doctor 
Mease, the following alterations and additions have taken place, 
on this subject. Besides, in the suburbs, some omissions are 
noticed. 

The commissioners of the District of Spring-Garden, .indby 
an act of tlie Legislature, passed in March, 1823, authorised to 
erect amarket-hou.se or market-houses, and town-hall, not ex- 
ceeding twenty.four feet wide, to be built in the centre of Cal- 
lowhill street, between Sixth and Seventh streets. This has 
not yet been done, nor have there been any appropriations for 
the purpose. This supplementary act, also authorises the com- 
missioners to aSopt measures, to bring good and wholesome 
water into the district, from the Schuylkill. A market is kept 
between Crown and Sixth street regularly, but there is no mar- 
ket-house. There are, however, a few shambles and stalls, 
private property. 



CALLOWHILL-STREET MARKET. 

Consists of four market-houses, situated on each side of 
Callowhill between Front and Second streets. It gives a 
name to the street which runs north, called New-Market 
street. It is very little attended to. 



MARKETS. u , 

WHARTON MARKET-HOUSE, 

Extends from St. John to Federal street, in New Second 
street, in the southern suburbs. In summer, a Sunday mar- 
ket is kept here until eight o'clock in the morning'. 

THE NEW-MARKET, 

In north Second, extends from Poplar lane, south, to Coates^ 
street, and is well attended. On market days, the streets is 
lined with wagons, to the South of Callowhill street. The 
Inn yards are well stored, on the day previous to market day. 

KENSINGTON MARKET, 

Runs north from Maiden street, at the end of Oak street, and 
is small. In summer here is kept a Sunday market, until eight 
o'clock in the morning. During the week it is but illy attended. 

THE FISH MARKET, 

Was formerly kept at the Drawbridge, latterly in Market 
street, between Water street and the Wharves, a new market 
house has been built, in handsome style, beginning fifty feet in 
Market from the east side of Water street and extending one 
hundred and fifty feet to the river Delaware. Its centre is eigh- 
teen feet high including the brick piers, and its eaves project 
seven feet on each side, supported by turned columns, and of 
its kind, is an ornament to the city. It is well stored with the 
finny tribe, such as resort to its contiguous waters. 

THE JERSEY MARKET, 

Between Front and Second streets, was torn down and re- 
built, by an ordinance of the city councils, passed February 
6th, 1822. It commences within fifteen feet of the west line of 
Front, and extends along the middle of High to within ten feet 
of the east line of Second street. Its columns are between 
eight and ten feet high, regard being had to the necessary le- 



70 MARKETS. 

vels. The width or breadth corresponds with the market hou- 
ses running westward. On the east end is erected a fanciful 
cupola or rotunda, raised on doric cohimns, or pillars, in which 
is placed a clock with two dials, one on the east and the other 
on the west. The front on High street, presents itself suppor- 
ted on each side by Ceres with her cornucopia or horn of plen- 
ty, having a most pleasing effect, and adds greatly to the beau- 
ty of the mai-ket house. 

HIGH STREET MARKET EXTENDED, 

"Was built by ordinances of the city councils, passed in 1821, 
and begins thirty feet west of the line of Sixth, and extends 
westward to thirty feet of the east line of Seventh, and 
recommences thirty feet west of the line of Seventh, and ends 
thirty feet of the east line of Eighth street. The piers or col- 
umns are from eight to ten feet high, regard being had to the 
necessary levels, the width or breath corresponding with that 
of the other market houses in High street. At each end of 
these new market houses, Is a plain neat Portico of the Doric 
order, each house containing four more stalls than the old ones. 
On Market days, "Wednesdays and Saturdays, High street is 
lined with wagons, generally from the end of the market house 
at Eighth until Twelfth, and sometimes Thirteenth street. 

MARKET-HOUSE, 

In Broad between Chesnut and Market streets, distant from 
the south of the Centre Sqiuire Circle fifty feet, and running 
along the middle of south Broad street, until thirty feet north 
of Chesnut street. The piers or columns ai'e not less than eight 
or- more than ten feet high, regard being had to the necessary 
levels. The width of the market-house is the same as the High 
street market, than which the eaves of this project two feet 
farther. A market was directed to be held here by an ordi- 
nance of the city councils, passed August 6th, 1814. This 
market is illy supplied. In Summer here is sometimes held a 
Sunday market, until eight o'clock in llie morning. 



:nuRCOES. 



REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

The members of this Society composed principally of ami- 
g-rants from Great Britain and Ireland, have erected in 1817, a 
plain, elegant and convenient house for divine service, corner 
of Eleventh and Hig-h streets, fifty-one feet in width, and eigh- 
ty in depth. Their Pastor is the Rev. Dr. Wylie, The num- 
ber of regular communicants is upwards of two hundred and 
fifty. The peculiarities whereby they are distinguished from 
other denominations of Presbyterians, chiefly respect coven- 
anting and civil magistracy. They beheve that churches and 
nations under the New Testament dispensation/ hke the Isra- 
elites under that of the Old Testament, ought publicly and for- 
mally, in dependance on the grace of God, to bind themselves 
•with the solemnity of an oath to yield a conscientious obedi- 
ence to the divine lav.-, in every relation of life. They main- 
tain the usefulness of this divine ordinance, (for they call it di- 
vine), upon tlie same moral principle wl:ich nil nations have re- 
cognized, in tlie expediency of using oaths in courts of justice, 
for the purpose of eliciting the truth on evidence. Whatever 
advantage in favor of truth may be eicpected from raving a 
witness duly sworn; they allege a similar advantage will accrue, 
in favor of the development of the christian character, from 
professors solemnly binding themselves, by their own act and 
deed, conscientiously to i;erve the Lord all the days of their 
life. 

On the article of civil magistrac}-, they maintain, that evejy 
nation where Christianity prevails is bound in its civic constitu- 
tion, to recognize the obligation of the Bible — acknowledge 
Messiah as the governor of the nations— obey his laws, and suf- 
fer none to fill offices of power or trust, but such as have scrip- 
tural qualifications. They say, that if Messiah, as the Bible 
asserts, is the governor of the nations, and has been pleased 
to reveal his law to any particular people, if that people or na- 
tion refuse its recognition, they cannot help viewing them, as 
being in a state of rebellion against the moral government of 
eh ovah. 



72 UNITED STATES COURTS. 



ST. JOHNS' METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 

Is a plain neat brick building of sufficient size, sitwated on 
the west side of Pitt street, on which it fronts with a cemetry 
adjoining. It was built in 18ir, and has the Rev. Mr. RusUng 
for Pastor. St. John street, commences at Callowhill street, 
between Second and Third streets, and extends to Cohocksink 
Creek, the northern boundary of the incorporated part of the 
Northern Liberties, at which point Pitt street commences and 
extends to the Germantown road. This church is situated im- 
mediately north of the aforesaid creek, and south of the Globe 
mills. 

UNITED STATES CIRCUIT COURT, 

For Pennsylvania, is held in Philadelphia, on the eleventh 
of April and on the eleventh of October. 

United States District Court, is held in the same city, on the 
third Monday in February, May, August and November. 

The Supreme Court of the State of Pennsylvania, for the 
Eastern District is held in Philadelphia, on the second Mon- 
day in March, to continue two weeks, and on the second Mon- 
day in December, to continue three weeks. In the city and 
county of Philadelphia only, this court has original jurisdiction 
of all cases where the sum exceeds five hundred dollars. 

The District Court for the city and county of Philadelphia, 
holds its sittings on the first Mondays in March, June, Septem- 
ber and December, and if business requires it, is bound to 
hold sittings nine months in the year. 

The Court of Quarter Sessions for the ^rst District is held in 
Philadelplua, on the first Mondays in March and June, the third 
Monday in September, and the first in December. 

The Courts of Oyer and Terminer, and General Gaol deliv- 
ery are held annually twice in the city and county of Philadel- 
phia, one by the Judges of the Common Pleas; the other by 
the Judges of the Supreme Court. 

The Orphans' Court for Philadelphia County, is held on the 
third Friday in each month. 



DEAF AND DUMB INSTITUTION. tS 

1 he Mayor's Court is held on the first Monday in September 
4nd on the third Mondays in December, March and June. 

UNITED STATES ARSENALS. 

The Legislature in their Session of 1822-3, in March passed 
an Act vesting the right t)f proj)erty in the Congress of tha 
United States, sold to the United States on May 27th, 1816, by- 
Frederick Fraley, and his wife Catharine, to be again relin- 
quishedto the Commonwealth, whenever the general govern- 
ment shall cease to occupy it as a fort and arsenal, the object 
for which the right of legislation was relinquished to the Uni= 
ted States, the State reserving to themselves at all times the 
right ofjurisdiction in civil and criminal cases. The premises de- 
vised are situated in Oxford Township, containing twenty acres 
and thirty-tour perches, bounded on the south by Frankford, or 
Tacony creek, in part by a street called Bomford street, in part 
by a road leading over from the Busileton road to the Ferry. 
This is north of the city : there also is another Arsenal and ap^ 
pendages on the east verge of the Schuylkill, d stant about 
one mile south, leading from South or Cedar street, the south- 
ern boundary of the city, to Gray's Ferry. 

THE PENNSYLVANIA INSTITUTION FOR THE 
DEAF AiND DUMB. 

This institution was established in 1820, by the benevolent 
exertions of a number of citizens. In 18-1 it was incorpoi-a- 
ted by the legislature, and liberally endowed. The State be- 
came the patrons of indigent deai and dumb children through" 
out the Commonwealth, agreeing by its law to educate in the 
institution as many pupils at one hundred and sixty dollars per 
annum, as should consume the sum of eight thousand dollars, 
for four years from the first day of April 182 . The Asylum is 
located at the south-east corner of High and Eleventh streets, 
a building well adapted to the accommodation of the establish- 
ment. The pupils are instructed on the approved plan of the 
L' Abbe Sicard of Fans, whose system promises to become unl: 
G 



86 HISTORICAL NOTICES. 

vcrsal, and thus render the language of the deaf and dumb the 
same in all parts of the world. The children of this institution 
are moreover taught various useful trades and manufactures, 
to fit them for their own independent support after they shall 
have been discharged from the school. 

The domestic affairs of the asylum .are committed to a ma- 
tron, who with a principal instructor and four assistant teach- 
ers, reside in the institution. 'I'he insutution is governed by a 
Board of Officers and Directors, amounting to thirty-one per- 
sons, and a female committee of twelve, inspect and aid in the 
management of the internal affairs of the Asylum. Sixty -nine 
pupils are now in the School.— Might Rev. IVm. White, D. D. 
President — Horace £i?mey, lioberts Vauoc, Thomas Cad-walladeri 
and Dr. JV, Chapman, Vice Presidents— ^azry /. Williams^ 
Secretary — John Bacon, Treasurer. 

HISTORICAL NOTICES. 

Tfie Original Deed to Wm. Penn, from the Morigines, 

This Indenture Witnesseth, That We, Packanah, Jack- 
ban, Sickals, Partquesott, Jervis Essepauk, Felktro>, Hekel- 
lappan Econus, Machloha Mettheongc, Wissa Powey, Indian 
Kings, Sachemakers, right owners of all lands, from Quing 
QuinguS: called Duck Creek, unto Upland, called Chester 
Creek, all along the west side of Delaware river, and so be- 
tween the said creeks backwards as far as a man can ride in two 
days with a horse, for and in consideration of these following 
goods to us in hand paid, and secured to be paid, by William 
Penn, Proprietor and Governor of the Province of Pennsyl- 
vania, and territories thereof, viz. twenty guns, twenty fath- 
oms matchcoat, twenty fathoms stroud water, twenty blankets, 
twenty kettles, twenty pounds of powder, one hundred bars of 
lead, forty tomahawks, one hundred knives, forty pair of stock- 
ings, one barrel of beer, twenty pounds of red lead, one hun- 
dred fathoms of wampum, thirty glass bottles, thirty pewter 
spoons, one hundred .;wl blades, three hundred tobacco pipes; 
one hundred hands of tobacco, twenty tobacco tongs, twenty 



HISTORICAL NOTICES. 8? 

steels, three hundred flints, tliirty pair of scissors, thirty combs., 
sixty looking-glasses, two hundred needles, one skipple of 
salt, thirty pounds of sugar, five gallons of molasses, twenty 
tobacco boxes, one hundred jews-harps, twenty hoes, thirty 
gimblets, thirty wooden screw-boxes, one hundred strings of 
beads — Do hereby acknowledge, &c. Given under our hands* 
&c. at New Castle, second day of the eighth month, 1685. 

Tlie above is a true copy from a copy taken from the original 
by Ephraim Morton, now living in Washington County, Penn- 
sylvania, formerly a clerk in the land office, which copy he 
gave to Mr. Hiitton, and from which the above was taken in 
Little York, this 7ih of December, 1813. A. M'C. 

On the 25th November, 1769, a committee of the Merchants 
of Philadelphia, a second time addressed a committee of the 
Merchants of London, on the subject of a non-importation 
agreement. 

The first congress of the United States, under thevcld con- 
federation met in the State-EIouse in 1774, consisting offifty-two 
members. Peyton Randolph was chosen the first President, 
uho died of an apoplectic fit, October 22, 1775, in the fifty-se- 
cond year of his age, after his second election. Charles Thomp- 
son was elected Secretary, which station he held until the ad. 
option of the new Constitution. A few years ago he commit- 
ted to the flames his correspondence, and when questioned for 
?;o censurable an act he replied " that theij (his correspondence) 
" ivoiihl make great men appear little, and little 7nen great." His ve- 
racity was never doubted, and every victory obtained by the 
American troops in the revolutionary war, announced under 
his signature, was stamped with firm belief of its veracity. 

The Declaration of Independence was read in the State- 
Oouse Yard, from the steps of that building on the 8th of July, 
1776. It was thirty-nine times acted upon in Congress before 
.■t was adopted. 

The Philadelphians agreed on the 2d of October, 1773, not 
io receive the Tea sent from England, 



88 NAVY-YARB. . 

John Moody, who designed to have seized tlie books and 
papers of Congress, was hung as a spy in Philadelphia, No- 
vember 13, 1781. 

Roberts and Carlisle, were hung in Philadelphia, on the 22d 
cf November, 1778, for high treason against the state of Penn- 
sylvania. Their crime was, having poisoned some flour sold by 
ihem from their mills, to some portion of the American Army. 

On the 24th of October, 1781, Congress then sitting in Phi- 
ladelphia, having received the official information of the cap- 
ture of Cornwallis and his entire army, v;ent in procession to 
the German Lutheran Church, and returned tlianks to Al- 
mighty God for the success of the American and French Ar- 
mies, in the completion of that happy event. In the evening 
the city was brilliantly illuminated, and on the following eve- 
r.ing a grand display of fire-works took place. 

General Charles Lee, died at the Sign of the Conestogo Wa- 
g-on, in Market street in 17S2. He was attended in his last ill- 
iiess by his friend Colonel Oswald, His body was removed to 
the City Tavern in South Second street, from which the fune- 
ral took place to St. Peters's Church, where he was interred. 
He was a native of England, of a noble family, had been aid- 
de-camp to the then King of Poland, came to this country 
about 1'773, and in 1776 was appointed Second in command of 
the American Armies. As a military and literary man his talents 
vere of a superior order, but his excentrlcities did not procure 
him that respect he otherwise merited. 

On the Fourth of July, 1788, a grand Federal procession 
ook place in Pliiladelphia, in consequence of the adoption of 
:he Federal Constitution, by a majority of the United States. 

NAVY-YARD. 

The Navy-Yard is situated at the south-east corner of Front 
and Federal streets, at the southern extremity of Swanson St. 

It embraces an area, of perhaps about fifteen or sixteen acres 
and is substantially walled in with brick on three sides, the 



COLLEGE OF FHAKMACY. j>y 

fourth fronting the river Delaware. There are dwellings for 
the officers, barracks for the marines, and work -shops for the 
artificers, besides which, there are two frame buildings con- 
structed over the shipping building, which answer all the pur- 
poses of a dry dock, and at the same time afford protection 
to the ship carpenters to work at all seasons, notwithstanding 
any inclemency of weather, being well lighted by windows. 
Here are all the conveniencies necessary to construct vessels of 
the largest dimensions, in the shortest possible notice. 

PHILADELPHIA COLLEGE OF PHARMACY. 

This society was instituted March, 1821, and incorporated by 
an act of the Legislature, in February, 1822. The members 
consist of persons actually pursuing the Drug and Apothecary 
business, and embrace the greatest number of the profession 
in the City and I^iberties, The object of the College as exhi- 
bited in the preamble to their Constitution are " to provide 
means ©f instruction by the establishment of a school of phar- 
macy, in which shall be taught those branches of knowledge, 
essential to the education of an Apothecary ; to invite a spirit 
of pharmaceutical investigation and research, and to diffuse in- 
formation amongst the members of the profession ; to guard the 
drug market from the introduction of spurious, adulterated, 
deteriorated, or otherwise mischievous articles, which are too 
frequently forced into it, by watching and giving early warning 
of their appearance ; to regulate tke business, as far as may 
be practicable and consistant with our social institutions; to es- 
tablish such rules as may promote a harmonious intercourse 
among its members ; to remedy many existing abuses •. and to 
advance the character and forward the interests of the profes- 
sion." 

The proper education of Apprentices, and the diffusion of 
scientific knowledge amongst the members are prominent ob- 
jects, and those which have heretofore claimed the greatest 
share of attention. 

The School of Pharmacy was organised in November, 1821, 
by the establishment of two professorships, one on Materia Me- 
G 2 



90 COLLEGE OP PHARMACY. 

dica and Pharmacy ; the other on Pharmaceutical and general 
chemistry; and arrangements have lately been made fbr the es- 
tablishment of a I.ibrai'y and Cabinet of specimens of Drugs, 
Medicines, and subjects of Natural History connected with the 
science and practice of Pharmacy. 

Regulations are made for holding examinations and granting 
diplomas in the profession. 

The officers of the College are a President, two Vice Pres- 
idents, a Secretary and Treasurer, who are elected annually at 
the meeting in March. 

The management of the local concerns of the institution, 
and the general regulation of the School of Pharmacy, are 
committed to a Board of Trustees consisting of sixteen mem- 
bers, (onehalf elected semi-annually,) and the officers of tlie 
College are members ex officio. 

The meetings of the College are held quarterly, those of the 
Board of Trustees monthly. 

The proper regulation of the drug and apothecary business 
upon which the health and comfort of the community so much 
depend is a subject of great and increasing importance in our 
Country-- and if the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, the on- 
ly institution of the kind in the U. States, steadily pursue the ob- 
jects f(pr which it was instituted, we may safely anticipate more 
perfect security to our citizens in the use of medicines, great- 
er confidence to the Physicians in their exhibition and the ele- 
vation of the Apothecaries of Philadelphia, to the character 
and standing of the Pharmacians of Europe. 

The meetings of the College are at present, held in the low- 
er room of the German Hall, in south Seventh, between High 
and Chesnut streets, v/hich they have also fitted up as a Lec- 
ture room, for the accommodation of the School of Pharmacy, 
The present officers of the Institution are : — Charles Mar. 
shal. President — William Lehman, Stephen JVorth, Vice Presi- 
dents — Daniel B. Smith, Secretary — William Heyl, Treasurer — 
Samuel Jackson, M. D. Professor of Materia Medica and Phar - 
mRcj-' George JB, Wood, M. D, Professor of Chemistry, 



INSTITUTION FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB. 



THE SOUTIIWARK OR SOUTHERN DISPEN- 
SARY, 

Is kept in a private house in Shippen between Third and 
Fourth Streets, south side. 

The Eye and Ear Infirmary, is a new and useful establishment 
kept at No. 4, south Seventh Street. 

The late Sir Benjamin West, a native of-Chester County, 
Pennsylvania, President of the Royal Academy, wishing; totes- 
tify his attachment to the country of his birth, has presented 
the Pennsylvania Hospital, for the benefit of that institution, 
one of the most splendid productions of genius, " Clirisi Heal- 
ing the Sick." The managers of the Hospital, have caused a 
building on the Hospital square, fronting Spruce Street, to be 
erected where West's Picture, is exhibited, according to the 
plan of the artist himself, in order to present it in its proper 
intended light and shade, presenting the happiest effect. 
This picture attracts the notice of every visitor of taste and 
the lovers of fine arts. The admission fee is twenty -five cents. 

THE INDIGENT WIDOWS' AND SINGLE WO- 
MEN'S ASYLUxM, 

Is a neat three story brick building in Arch Street, on a lot 
adjoining the Orphan's Asylum, not farfrom the river Schuyl- 
kill. It was completed in 1817, and is under the care of a com- 
mittee of Ladies, who are particularly attentive to the chari- 
table duties they have so philanthropically undertaken. 

PHILADELPHIA INSTITUTION, 
FOR THE INSTRUCTION OF THE DEAF AND DUMB, 

This is located in a private three story brick building ofcon- 
renient size, on the south side of Market Street, between 
Schuylkill Sixth and Seventh Streets. It arose from the exer- 
tions of several philanthropic individuals, and is supported by 
private munificence and pay scholars, Under the care of Mr, 



^j2 custom-house, 

David Selxas, to whose exertions it owes its existence, it is in 
ti thriving condition. There is a committee of general super- 
intendence, consisting of five, to whom apphcation for admis- 
sion is to be made. 

THE MERCANTILE LIBRARY, 

Was estabhshed in 1822, and is located in a private building 
in Chesnut, between Third and Fourth Streets, near the Com- 
mercial Bank. 

SOUTHWARD COMMISSIONERS' HALL, 

Is a neat two story brick building, of suitable dimensions, 
situuted in south Second near Christian Street. It has a cupola 
in which is placed a clock and dial ; in this building the Com- 
missioners have their meetings, and the election for the district 
is held. 

THE CUSTOM-HOUSE 

Was formerly kept in Carpenters' Hall, in Carpenters* Court 
leading from Chesnut Street, but was removed to anew brick 
building, the property of the United States, erected in south 
Second Street, north corner of Elmslie's Alley, on the site of 
buildings formerly the property of the late Thomas Affllick, 
George Hunter, and others. The plan was the production of 
Mr. Strickland, the architect, under vvhose direction the build- 
ing and store-houses were erected. To this the Custom-house 
was removed on the 11th of December, 1816. 

The front of the basement story is of marble, the other sto- 
ries are of brick. In front beneath the attic story is a 
niche, in which is placed a statue, the emblem of commerce. 
The building has in front an area fronted by iron railings, and 
is paved. 

Directions for finding the different Offices in the Cust07n House. 

The desks of the Clerks, &c. are numbered from one to six 5 
and the business done at each desk is as follows: 



CHURCHES. 9:? 

Desk, No. 1.— Examination of Inward Entries, calculations 
of Duties and Drawbacks. 

No. 2,— Bonds for Duties taken and Permits issued. 

No. 3. — Cashier, and for the Entrance and Clearancs 
of Vessels coastwise. 

No. 4.— Exports and Debentures. 

No. 5. — Record of Imports. 

No. 6.— Entrance and Clearance of Vessels from and 
to foreign ports, and for preparing ships' pa- 
pers. 

NEW PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 
[Rev. T. H. Skinner, Pastou.] 

Is situate in Arch Street above Tenth. This building-, erec- 
ted by an association of persons, and dedicated June Tth, 1823; 
is on a fine and elevated part of the city, to which its steeple is 
highly ornamental; exhibiting at one view, in their proper 
grades, from the base to the summit, the doric, ionic, corinthi. 
an, and composite orders of architecture ; its height being 
about 165 feet. The principal floor contains 1341arge and com- 
modious pews; the gallery, with ample room for an Orchestra, 
andflfty-four large pews. In the basement story, there area 
lecture room, capable of containing an audience of fhore than 
five hundred persons, and two Sabbaih School rooms. A fine 
room in the tower, called the Session Room, will accommodate 
one hnndrcd and fifty worshippers. The dimensions of the ed- 
ifice are ninety-one by sixty -five feet. Its character comprises 
simplicity and elegance, in a degree and manner well suited to 
the sacred uses, for whicli it was designed. 

THE UNITARIAN CHURCH, 

Is a neat brick building, at the corner of Tenth and Locust 
Streets, nearly of an octagon form, with a cupola and belJ. 
The society attend divine service every Sabbath, and have a sta- 
ted preacher. The cemetry adjoins the Church, but is small. 



PLJiJ^Tof the Incorporated parts of the JSTorthern Li- 
berties, Penn Township, the Cit;/ of Philadelphia, 
District ofHouthioark, Moyamensing and Passi/itnk. 



Cuhocsink Creek, or J\'orther7i Boundary. 



I t 



J\^orthern Lihernes. 



tScventh 
I'oplar 



Sixth Ward. 



Green 



Fourth Ward. 



Willow 



Second Ward. 



Ward. 



Lane. 



Fifth Wafd. 



Street. 



Third Ward. 



First Ward. 



s! 
1 

^ \ Vine Street, or JVorthern Bowidary of the City. 

•S _ — — • 

Co- 



JSi'orth Mulberry Ward. 


1 
1 


Ufj/jer Dela-ware Ward. 


^ Ilace or 


Sassafnis Str(-et. 


^ South Mulberry Ward. 


Jjijiver jJeia-i'.'ui-e H unl. 


\ Arcl) or 


Mulberry Street. 


JWrih Ward. 


High Street fi ard. 


\ Myr..;et nr 


Hig-li Street. 


.Middle Want. 


C/iesiait JVurd. 


("Ii.-smn 




Street. 


^ ,JLU(,': '.' uvd. 


Wulmit Hard. 


' VVuhuit 


Street. 


5 Locust il ard. 


Dock (1 ard. 


', Sprace 


Street. 


'; Cedar Ward. 


JSi'e-wnuirket U'ard. 



Cedar Street, or Southern Boundary of the City, 












^ ^ 








O J J 


s 


1 






// 




- s 

\ 

\ 


i 


^ 


-^ 


/y 




i 


& 


5 


rf 


Suuth\i-Viri\'. 


t 






1^ 


i 




i 


i 






/ / 




i 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



Ininductory Histort/, 

Jilamtfaclnres, 

Manufactories, ... 

Articles Mmiufacturedy 

Commerce, . . , . 

Exports, .... 

Permanent Bridge, ... 

Upper Permanent Bridge, - 

.Sthejianm, .... 

JVe-w Bank of the United States, 

Philadelphia Bank, . 

Stephen Girard's Bank, 

Commercial Bank of Peniisylvania, . 

Mechanics' Bank, » . . 

Schuylkill Bank, 

Bank of the J^orthern Liberties, 

State Arsenal and Armory, - 

Merchants* Cnffee-House, or Exchange, 

Centre Engine House, 

Fair Mount Water Works, - 

j^Ce-iu Jerusalem Temple, 

St. Stephen's Church, 

St. John's Church, ... 

St. Joseph' s f Roman Catholic J Church, 

Second Universalist Church, 

Church of the United Brethreji, 

Associate Church, . - - 

First Presbyterian Church, - 

J\rinth Presbyterian Church, 

JVew Market Street Baptist Church, - 

Ji^w Methodist Church, Salem, 

German Reformed Church, - 

Mount Zion, - =■ » 



Page, 



96 CONTENTS. 






Menonists or Dunhers, 




45 


Fi'^st African Baptist C/ntrch, 




45 


First Jlfrican Presbijieriari Church, - 




45 


^ifvican Wesleyan Church, - 




45 


Fuel Saving' Society, . . - 




46 


Musical Fund Society, 




47 


Saving Fund Society, 




47 


Pennsylvania Company, 




48 


Philadelphia Fire Association, 




48 


The Apprentices' Library Company, • 




49 


JVorthern Dispensary, 




49 


Christ Church Hospital, 




50 


J\''urthern Liberties Commissioners' Italic 




50 


JVew Penitentiary, ... 




£0 


The Public Schools, 




60 


List of Mayors and Recorders, 




61 


List of Aldermen, 




64 


Orphan Society, 




64 


Markets, - . - . 




68 


St. Johi's fMethodistJ Episcopal Church, 




72 


Sefurmed Presbyterian Church, 




71 


Unit._ d States' Circtdt Court, 




n 


United States' Arsenals. 




85 


Pennsylvania Listitution for the Deaf and Dumb, 


85 


Historical J\''otices, 


- 


86 


J\.''aTy Yard, ... 


, 


88 


Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, 


. 


89 


Southern Dispensary, 


. 


91 


Indigent Wido-ws' and Single Women's Asylum, 


ib. 


Philade'phia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, 


ib. 


Mercantile 'Library, 




92 


Southivark Commissioners' Hall, 




ib,. 


Custom House, 




ib. 


J\few Presbyterian Church, 




53 


Unitarian Church, 




ib. 


Plan of the City and Liberties, 




94 



CONTENTS. 



^Introductory History, .,_.-■. 1 

Topographical Description, - - - - 15 

Various Plans of the City, - - - - - 17 

General Description 20 

Plan of the Wards, 29 

Population, - - -- - - -SO 

Number of Houses, ------ 32 

Table of Progressive Population, - - - ib. 

Deaths in 1793, 1797, 37 

Causes of Increase of Population, - - - 38 

Climate, 40 

Diseases and Mortality, . _ _ - - 4.5 

Bills of Mortality, '----- 47 

Comparative Health of Philadelphia and New York, 5 1 
Commerce, - - - - - - -52 

Exports, --------53 

Tonnage, - ------54 

PricesCurrent, in 1720, 1798 & 1811, - - 55 

Inspectionof Beef and Pork, . ~ - - 56 

~ ■ — — - Flour, - - _ 

Shad and Herring, - 

Butter, - 

. i Flax-seed, 

■ Shingles, 

Lumber, 

Measurer of Grain, Weigh Masters, 



.IV CONTENTS. 

Chamber of Commerce, ^7 

Survey of Damaged Ships and Cargoes, - - 68 

Wardens of the Port, 70 

Pilots, 71 

Harbour Master, 73 

Manufactures, -------74 

Breweries — Distilleries, 77 

Abstract of the Marshal's Report, - - - 79 

Press — History — Progress — Present State, - 80 

News-papers in Philadelphia, (See Appendix.) - 83 
Periodical works, formerly published in Philadelphia, 84 

Present Periodical Publications, - . - . 87 

Former Government in Philadelphia, - - 88 

Present Government of the City, - . . 92 

of South wark, - - - 93 

Northern Liberties, - - ib. 

Circuit and District Courts, - - - • ib, 

STATE LAW COURTS. 

1. Civil Courts, 98 

2', Common Pleas, 99 

3. District Court, - 99 

4. Criminal Courts, 101 

BANKS. 

1. Of North America, - - - - - 103 

2. Of Pennsylvania, 105 

3. Of Philadelphia, 106 

4. Fai-mers and Mechanics, - . - . lof 

INSURANCE OFFICES. 

1. Insurance Company of North America, - - 108 

2. Insurance Company of Pennsylvania, - - 109 

3. Union Insurance Company, - - - - ib, 

4. Phoenix Insurance Company, - - - ib. 

5. Delaware Insurance Company, - - - 111 

6. United States Insurance Company, - - id. 

7. Marine Insurance Company, 3 - - 112 



CONTENTS. V 

3. Lancaster and Susquehanna Insurance Company, ilf. 

9. Mutual Fire Assurance Company, - - 114 

iO. American Fire Insurance Company, - - 115 

11. Phoenix Company of London, - - - 116 

Markets — Provisions, - - - - - ib. 

Preservation of the Peace, 123 

Constable's Elections, - - - - • ib. 

City Commissioners, - - - - - 124 

Watching and lighting, 124 

Cleansing the Streets, - - - - - 125 

Fuel — Wood Corders — Public Landings, - - ib. 

Sale of Bread, - - - - "- - - 128 

Protection of Mechanics and Labourers, - - 130 

Storing of Gun Powder, - - - - ' ib. 

Boiling of Oil of Turpentine and Varnish, - - 131 
Health Law, - - - - - -. -id. 

Provision against Fire, - - - - - 157 

Hose Companies, (5t'e ^/i/2i-«(//x.) - - - 138 

Wooden Buildings — Law on, - - - - 1 40 

Weights and Measures, - - - - - 141 

Auctioneers, - - - - - - - 14.4 

City Surveyors, - - - - - - 145 

Water-works, - - - - - - - 147 

Mint, 154 

Jail and Penetentiary System, - - - - 158 

Law for Debtors, 186 

Elections, - - - - - - -191 

Revenue and Expenditure, - - - - 193 

Sinking Fund, - - - - - - -195 

Taxes and mode of Assessing, - - _ - 195 

Religious Societies, - - - - - - 199 

Places of Worship, 217 

Remarks on Spirit of Toleration, - . - 223 

Charitable Institutions, - - - - - 224 

i. Pennsylvania Hospital, - - - - - ib. 

2. Philadelphia Dispensary, - . . . 236 

3. Humane Society, ------ 240 

Society for Vaccinating the Poor, - - - 343 
Charitable Society, - - - - .- 



vi CONTENTS. 

Abolition Society, ------ 

Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Prisons, - 243 

Magdalen Society, ------ 245 

PRIVATE AND ENDOWED INSTITUTIONS. 

1. Friend's Alms House, ----- 246 

2. Christ Church Hospital, - - - - 247 

ASSOCIATIONS FOR GENERAL CHARITY. 

I . Female Society for the Employment of the Poor, 247 

■3. Female Hospitable Society, - - - - 248 

S. Female Association, 250 

FREE SCHOOLS. 

1. Sunday School Society, - - - - 251 

2. Philadelphia Society for the establishment and 

support of Charity Schools, . - . 252 

0. Aimwell School Society, - - . - 254 

4. Philadelphia Union Society, - - - - 257 

5. St. Joseph's Society, 258 

6. Adclphi School, ' 259 

Public Provision for Free Education, - - - 262 

Schools for the Education of Blacks, - - - ib. 

PATRIOTIC SOCIETIES. 

1. Domestic Society, 264 

2. Agricultural Society, 266 

3. Cattle Society, - - - - - - ib. 

MUTUAL BENEFIT SOCIETIES. 

1. Of Carpenters, 267 

2. Ship Master's Society, . - - - 268 

3. Pilot's Society, - ' - - - - - 270 

4. Mariner's Society, - - - - - ib. 

5. Stone-cutter's Society, - - _ - ib. 

6. Biickkiyer's Society, 271 



CONTENTS. vii 

y. Hair-dresser's Society, - - - _ 272- 

8. Typographical Society, - - - - ifi. 

9. Master Taylor's Society, - - - - 274 
10. Provident Society of House Carpenters, - ib. 
U. Master Mechanic's Society, - - - 275 
Societies of various other Mechanics, - - - 276 

OTHER MUTUAL BENEFIT SOCIETIES. 

1. Provident, ------. 276 

2. Philanthropic, 277 

3. Columbian Benevolent, .... id. 

Several others, - 278 

Summary of their Constitutions, - - - - 278 

Society of Masons, - 288 

ASSOCIATIONS FOR RELIEF OF FOREIGNERS. 

1. St. Andrev/s, 28© 

2. St. George, 281 

3. Welsh, ------- id. 

4. Hibernian, ib. 

5. German Incorporated Society, - . - 283 

MUTUAL BENEFIT SOCIETIES OF FOREIGNERS AND 
THEIR DESCENDENTS. 

1. United German Benefit Society, ... 28^ 

2. German American Mutual Assistant Society, - 284 

3. Caledonian Society, ib. 

4. Scots Thistle Society, 285 

5. St. Patrick's Benevolent Society, - - - 287 

6. Society de Bienfaisance, - - - - id. 

Bible Society, - ib. 

Provision for the Poor, ..... 292 

Private Provision for the Poor, - - - - 338 

1. Fund for supplying the Poor with Fuel, . - 340 
3. Fund to relieve the Poor placed in the City Hos- 
pital, during the prevalence of the Yellow 

Fever, - - - - - - - 341 



CONTENTS. 



LITERARY INSTITUTIONIS. 

1. Friend's School, ^6 

2. University of Pennsylvania, ... - ib. 

3. American Philosophical Society, - - - 300 

4. Medical Society, 302 

5. College of Physicians, - - - - - ib. 

6. Medical Lyceum, 303 

7. Linnean Society, ib. 

LIBRAllIES. 

i. Philadelphia Library, - - - . _ 305 

3. Loganian, do. ------ 308 

3. Friend's, do. - - - - - -310 

Peale's Museum, 311 

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, - - - 3 14 

Society of Aitists, -316 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

Old Court House, 317 

State House, 318 

Old College, 319 

Bank of the United States, - . . . 320 

■ Pennsylvania, 321 

Philadelphia, ib. 

County Court House and City Hall, - - - 324 

University of Pennsylvania, .... 325 

Independent Tabernacle, 326 

Baptist Church, - - - . .. * . ib. 

Theatre, - - 328 

Circus, 331 

Masonic Hall, 333 

City Hospital, - - - ^ - - - 355 



CONTENTS. is 

literary Characters, - - - - -336 

ranklin's Legacy, 338 

Dhn Keble's Legacies, - . - . . 342 
'ours in the Vicinity of Philadelphia, - - 344 

APPENDIX. 

•mission respecting the proposer of Hose Comp'anies* 
fotice of St. Michael's Church, 
fotice of Aitken's Bible, of 1782. 
orrectiou respecting the Streets. 



iw^am^^ ^^sr^@M^^ 



Certainly nothing is better entitled to be notice 
a work which professes to be a " Picture of Philadei 
phia," and to give a faithful description of her insti- 
tutions so deservedly renowned for their humanity, 
than that invaluable medicine. « Swaim's Fanace... 
For Philadelphia claims the honour of inventing it, ot 
testing its value, and of promulging its merits to the 
world? Her citizens were the first to lay down then 
prejudices and listen to conviction; her physicians 
were the first to contemn the suggestions of lUiberality, 
and openly and avowedly to praise it. ^here are but 
few who are unacquainted with its history. Suffice it 
therefore to say. that Mr. William Swaim a citizen 
of Philadelphia, endowed with a mind naturally in- 
clined to medical pursuits, had observed the utter 
inability of all the arts of regular practice, to adminis- 
ter an antidote to the dreadful effects of mercury, which 
appeared to him the more horrible, as they descended 
wi?l he paternal blood to the innocen , and indeed 
were almost a fulfilment of the ^^nptural denunciation 
of visiting the sins of the parent upon the third and 
fourth generations of his progeny. A remedy to him 
did not appear impracticable; and he adopted the no- 
ble resolution of devoting himself to its discovery He 
ransacked all the stores of bounteous nature. He in- 
quired and rejected, examined and abandoned unti 
at length his efforts were successfu : the Panacea 
was the fruit of his diligence. Armed with this he 
Idvanced into the arena with confidence and chal- 
lenged the faculty to a competition. He attempted 



.-W ALMS PANACKA, 

ases which they had prouounced incurable, and suc- 
. ceded. — Scrofid a, Syphilis, tlie Mercurial Disease, Cu- 
taneous Aft'ectioiis ol various kinds, were found to vieid 
to its potent efficacy. The Faculty were now in arms. 
They endeavoured to prejudice the public against it, 
by attributing to it the most noxious ingredients. They 
ot scruple to say, that it contained arsenic, and 
ir deleterious drugs, which might rouse the public 
^prehension; but tiiey failed. Its merits were too 
ODvious. They now changed their note; they now 
'said they had long been acquainted with it, and at- 
temjptevi-te ijjk-^^f' Swaira of the merit of the disco- 
very. But this device was too shallow ; for if they 
had known it, why had they not used it ? Why had the 
bills of mortality been crowded with deaths by dis- 
eases for which this medicine is a certain specific.^ 
The physicians admitted its value, by attempting to 
discover the secret. It was subjected to the most 
powerful agents of chemical analysis, both here and 
in Europe — but in vain. Chemistry serves but to de- 
tect minerals. Their attempts were of course abor- 
tive. All of them now yielded; at least the respect- 
able portion: for there are a few in the lowest walks 
of every profession, who festering under the conscious- 
ness of their own insignificance, view with malignant 
envy merit which they can never equal. These per- 
sons have caused the press to teem with their detrac- 
tions. They have identified it with fifty well known 
medicines. The public may estimate the degree of 
credit which is to be attached to their assertions, from 
the consideration that notwithstanding their arrogant 
pretensions of detection, it has been introduced into 
the Alms-House, and into the hospitals of this place 
and New York; moreover that the proprietor has re- 
ceived highly recommendatory certificates from the 
most eminent physicians in both those cities, which 
reflects the highest honour on themselves, and entitles 
them to the lasting gratitude of the public. Those 



. .vxaci:a. 

.etractois I'aar it lias beon long used in 

France umler xiinuus titles, aiu! yet Dr. Price, a s^en- 
tleiimii who practised in the Parisian h()spitais fur 
years, and may therefore be supposed intiinately ac- 
quainted with the French pharmacopceia, is so con- 
vinced of its bein,i>; a new and important discovery, 
that he has deserted a lucrative situation in the Penn 
sylvania hospital, in order to cai-ry it to Europe. Burt 
this medicine has yet another class of enemies, vyho, 
it is to be feared, may or have effected more practical 
injury to the public than the other, as their bold pre- 
tensions may deceive the ignorant; it consists of those 
apothecaries and others, who admitting Mr. Swaim's 
title to the original discovery, advertise that they have 
attained the knowledge of his secret. The simple fact 
that all the physicians of eminence have abandoned 
their attempts to develop the secret constituents of 
this medicine, ought to put the public on their guard 
ao-ainst the arrogance of these ignorant pretenders; 
or at least they should listen to this simple dictate of 
prudence, not to purchase that which is encumbered 
with a doubt, when the undoubtedly genuine can so 
easily be procured. Should any, however, be so un- 
fortunate as to be lured by their proffers, they will be 
taught by experience, that they have expended their 
,time and money without avail; or perhaps, that they 
have, by loading their systems with noxious drugs, 
added to the ravages of disease. Such is its history 
in our own country. A new field is now open to it 
in England, whence we receive daily accounts of its 
success. Indeed it appears (and we speak it reverent- 
ly) to be reacting the mirncles of Judea. It has there 
also the same fearful weight of prejudice to rise 
under, whiclv it experienced in our own country. And 
that, not the antipathy of the vulgar, but of the regu- 
lar facultv, wi.ich they naturally feel for any thing 
that hath" Ui-i slightest appearance of empiricism.— 
But it has there also made some converts already 



SWAIM'S PANACEA. 



among the surgeons, and we trust all those who ar 
worth gaining, will shortly have a due estimation < 
Its merits. An invidious few, will there, as well a 
here, continue to inveigh against it, till time sha 
have established its credit on so firm a basis, that t 
'r doubt It would be sacrilege. But let the happy in 
*>.entor solace himself by the consideration, that' thi 
•ir IS the fate of every great and good undertaking. A 
t'P philanthropists, and as members of the family o 
mankind, we have cause to rejoice at any thing whicl 
IS so great an alleviation of misery; but as Ameri 
cans, upon its being sent to Europe, we cannot but in- 
dulge in some degree of pride, that the author of this^ 
discovery is a countr};man of our own. Circum^i' 
stances have circumscribed our efforts in literaturel 
But it IS to the advancement which physics and the^ 
mechanic arts have received in our country, that w 
can proudly appeal for a refutation of that wretche 
philosophy, which would rank us among the de<^ene 
racies of nature. It has been unjustly objected? th^ 
Mr. Swaim does not disclose for the benefit of maii 
kind, the constituents of his medicine. His motivi 
IS not pecuniary. It is to preserve it from abuse' 
such IS Its nature, that should it fall into the hands d 
the Ignorant, the effects would be dreadful; althougl 
it IS, when compounded under the direction of th( 
skilful, perfectly harmless and inoffensive. At thi 
same time that he has avoided these ills by conceal 
ment, he has obtained all the benefits of a disclosun 
by distributing his medicine in every direction hfl 
means of his agents. Let him proceed in his work oF' 
philanthropy, and he will receive as the meed of his 
exertions the applause of the wise, and the gratitude 
of the good ! 



PREFACE. 



IN composing a work like the present, the au- 
thor is of opinion that the chief object ought to be 
the multiplication of facts, and that the reflections 
arising out of them, should be, left to the reader. 
lie has, therefore, avoided making any remarks upon 
subjects treated of, except in a few instances where 
^i*;^ey were in a measui-e drawn from him by the oc- 
casion, and where it was thought they would elu- 
cidate what had preceded. A\vare of the inaccuracy 
of tradition, he has cautiously admitted some nar- 
rations of occurrences among the early settlers, 
and has intentionally omitted others which, after a 
minute investigation, he found could not be sup- 
ported. He is conscious, however, that he might 
have rendered his detail of " old times" more in- 
teresting, if he had been favoured with the docu- 
ments which, he supposes, must remain in the fa- 
milies of the original settlei-s, and which he flatter- 
ed himself would have been off'ered, when it was 
known that an attempt was about to be made to 
trace the progress of the city from its settlement 
to the present time. 

Upon some subjects he has forborn to speak, be- 
cause he found that in considering them, he could 
not be moderate. He will only mention one ; the 
public squares : — the prostitution of which, in the 



Xil PREFACE. 

thickly settled parts of the city, and the neglect to 
enclose and plant the rest, in order to prepare for the 
comfort and health of a population, rapidly in- 
creasing, loudly call for reprehension. — European 
nations will hear with astonishment, that out of the 
five squares, expressly set apart, by the benevolent 
founder of the city, for the purpose of public walks, 
and the salutary recreation of future generations, not 
one has been exclusively appropriated to its des- 
tined object! — that parts ot some of them have 
been applied to the most injurious uses ; and that 
even an open space near the Delaware, in the south- 
ern part of the city, also left for general benefit, has 
been rented for a board yard ! ! 

The example set by the city of New York is 
praise-worthy in the highest degree, and deserving 
of imitation by a city which boasts, (and with much 
propriety), of many excellent establishments, tend- 
ing to promote and preserve health and general 
comfort. 



PICTURE 



PHILADELPHIA, 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

WE are indebted for the discovery of the river 
DelaAvare, to the commercial sph'it which was roused 
in Enghmd by Sir Walter Raleigh, in the year 1584. 
Some of the expeditions of that enterprising, but 
unfortunate man, were attended with singular cala- 
mity ; but the hopes of better fortune, induced others 
to persevere in exploring the same quarter of the 
globe ; and in consequence of the success that at- 
tended the voyages Oi some private adventurers from 
England to the northern parts ol the present United 
States, application was made to King James the first, 
by several merchants to incorporate them for the 
purpose of trading to Virginia, by which name the 
country in general was known. Two companies were 
accordingly lormed ; one designated by the name 
of the// ;-*^ Colony^ with liberty to begin their first 
settlements at any place between the 34th and 41st 
degrees of North latitude. A second Colony had 
permission to settle between 38° and 45° of North 
latitude: — This company taking the name of tlie 



2 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

South Virginia company, commenced their first voy- 
age in 1606, and discovered the Capes of Virginia, 
and proceeding up James river, planted themselves 
at James Town. 

Henry Hudson, with the design of finding a 
North West passage to the East Indies, leit the 
Texel in 1609, but it does not appear from his 
journals, whether he was employed by the E. India 
Company, or by an individual. Having failed in the 
object o!" his voyage, he followed the tract of the 
Cabots ; coasted along the shores of Newiound- 
land, and proceeding southwardly, anchored oif the 
Delaware. 

In 1610, Thomas West, Lord Delawar, was ap- 
pointed Governor by the South Virginia company, 
who falling in with the land about two degrees to the 
Northward of the Capes of Virginia, discovered 
a capacious Bay, and named it after himselL 

The Dutch government purchased the right of 
Hudson's discoveries, and incorporated a company 
in 1621, for trading to the country. The particu- 
lar progress they made cannot now be ascertained, 
neither is it of much consequence. We know cer- 
tainly, that they gave the name of New Nether- 
lands to all the country from New York to the Dela- 
ware, and some distance south of it : and that in 1623 
they took possession of the Delaware, which they 
named Ziiydt river, in opposition to the Hudson, 
which was called North river. At that early peri- 
od, they built lort Nassau, at, or near Gloucester, 
on the Jersey shore, about three miles below the pre- 
sent City of Philadelphia. 

In 1627, the first colony of Swedes arrived, and 
landing at the interior cape of Delaware bay, named 
it Point Paradise. William Useling, a Dutchman who 
had previously visited the country, appears to have 
excited the Swedes, to emigrate to the new world, 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 3 

and a large company was formed of the first people 
in Sweden, under whose auspices the enterprize was 
commenced.* 

In 1630, under the direction of Peterson deVries, 
the Dutch extended their settlements up the Dela- 
ware, on the Western side, as far as Eompt-Hook, 
the place now known by the name Bombay-Hook, 
which they called Swandale. The eastern cape of 
the bay they called Cape-May, after Cornelius Jacobs 
May, an early Dutch American navigator. The 
Bay was named Nieli Port May, and Godyns Bay, 
from Samuel Godyn, an eminent merchant of Amster- 
dam, who was greatly interested in the first settle- 
ment of the New Netherlands, and is frequently men- 
tioned by P. de Vries in his account of the country. 

In 1631, the Swedes built a fort on Manquas 
creek, and called it after their queen, Christiana : 
here they made their first regular settlement, which 
has been continued to the present time, and by the 
same name. They finally fixed their head quarters 
at Fort Gottemburgh, on the Island of Tinnicum, 
about twelve miles below the present City of Phi- 
ladelphia, f 

A church of wood was erected at Tinnicum, and 
consecrated September 4, 1646. The Swedes at that 
time had several small settlements higher up the 
river, and a few forts, viz. at Korsholin on Passa- 
jung ; another on Manajung, (Schuylkill,) one at 
Chinsessing, (Kingsess.) On the Jersey side the\' 
built fort Elsinburgh, and settled various places be- 
tween that and Cape May. The country generally-, 
was called New Sv/eden : the river New Swedeland 
stream ; and by these names they described du- 



* Holm's description of New Sweden. Stockholm 1702. 
f Near the l.azr.retto. — The remains of the inhabitantg are 
occasionally discovered there at this day. 



•i INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

country- in the works which they published respecting 
it in Sweden. Governors were regularly appointed 
in Sweden. John Printz was their first Governor, 
and until 1654'. 

The Dutch built a fort at Hoerkill, on the west 
side of the Capes, in 1630, but appear to have giv- 
en the preference to New York, as a place of resi- 
dence, owing to the greater facilities it afforded for 
the purposes of commerce. They however, omitted 
no opportunity to assert their right to the country 
on the South River, as appears by a letter of Gover- 
nor Kieft, from New Amsterdam, to P. Minuitts, 
Governor of New Sweden, in 1638 : in which he 
asserts, " that the whole south river of New Neth- 
erlands, had been in the Dutch possession many 
years, above and below, beset with forts, and sealed 
with their blood."=^ And in 1642, the colonists from 
Maryland, having settled on Schuylkill, Keift fitted 
out tv/o sloops to drive them away ; a measure which 
the Swedes were either unwilling to undertake, or 
unable to accomplish. The mother countries, howe- 
ver, appear to have deemed it most prudent to permit 
the colonists to settle their own disputes ; for in the 
treaty of peace between the Swedes and Dutch, in 
1640, held at Stockholm, no notice was taken of 
American affairs. 

In 1651, the Dutch erected a trading house on 
the spot where the town of New Castle is now sit- 
uatecl. Printz, the Swedish governor, on Tinnicum, 
contented himself with formally protesting against 
the incroachment : but not accompanying his paper 
by m.ore v/eighty considerations, he was disregarded. 
Risingh, his successor in the government, came be- 
fore the fortress, fired a salute, and landed thirty 
men, who were entertained by the commandant as 



Smith's Hislorvof New York. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTOUY. 5 

friends : but having discovered the weakness of the 
garrison, he seized upon it, and compelled some of 
the people to swear allegiance to his queen*. This 
conquest, however, was of short duration ; for in the 
year 1655, the Dutch West India Company deter- 
mining to recover their possessions, applied to the 
city of Amsterdam for assistance, and sent governor 
Stuyvezant with six or seven vessels, and seven hun- 
dred men, to the Delaware, where he arrived on 
the ninth of September. Having anchored his fleet, 
and landed the troops, a demand was made of the 
fort. The commander Suen Scutz, was a soldier by 
profession, and had lost a leg in the Dutch service. 
But though probably not deficient in courage, nor in- 
disposed to defend his post, yet ])erceiving his for- 
ces so inferior to that of his enemy, as to render re- 
sistance of no avail, he prefered an honourable cap- 
itulation to the useless waste of human lire. He 
therefore surrendered on the 16th September. Four 
fourteen pound cannon, five swivells, and some small 
arms, composed the list of offensive weapons found 
in the fort. Risingh commanded at Christiana, which 
also surrendered on the 25th of the same month. 
Finally, fort Gottemburgh, on Tinnicum, was deliv- 
ered up, and razed : all the houses outside of the 
fort destroyed ; and to prevent further attempts on 
the part of the Swedes, to regain possession, the offi- 
cers and principal persons were shipped to New 
Amsterdam, and thence to Europe. Thus the Dutch 
became masters of all the country on the west side 
of the Delaware, which was for a time governed 
by the deputies of the Company's Director General 
at New Amsterdam, from whom the, titles of many 
tracts of land may be traced to this day. 

In 1664 Charles the Second ot England gave a 
large tract of land including all the countrv known 



* Holm's description of New 3wedei 
A 2 



6 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

by the name of New Netherlands to his brother 
James, Duke of York, under whose direction an ex- 
pedition consisting of four ships and 300 men, com- 
manded by Colonel Nicholls, was sent against the 
colony. After receiving possession of the fort at New 
Amsterdam, from Stuyvezant, he dispatched Sir 
Robert Carr with the ships to the Delaware, who ex- 
perienced no opposition from the settlers, and on 
the first of October took possession of New-Ams- 
tel (now New Castle) after articles of capitulation, 
of the most liberal nature had been signed; Nicholls 
was appointed governor, and acted as such until the 
year 1688, when he was succeeded by Carr. In 1672 
war having taken place between England and the 
Dutch, the latter sent a few ships against New- York. 
The commander Manning, through treachery sur- 
rendered the fort without resistance: the people on 
Delaware again changed masters, and sent deputies 
to New Amsterdam declaring their submission, but 
in the space of a few months in consequence of a trea- 
ty of peace between England and the States Gene- 
ral, they were again restored to the British, and 
Captains Cantwell and Tom deputed by the govern- 
ment of New-York, to take possession of the coun- 
try on the Delaware. A v/ell known creek in Dela- 
w^are, bears the name of the first, and a river in New- 
Jersey perpetuates that of the last. 

Peace was thus restored to the harassed emigrants, 
who continued to extend their settlements up the 
river, and to cultivate the friendship oi the natives. 

The father of William Penn was an admiral in the 
service of England, and was second in command under 
James Duke of York in 1665, in the engagement 
with, and victory over the Dutch fleet commanded 
by Van Opdam. He had also served in several dis- 
tinguished offices at home, and had lent a conside- 
rable sum of money to the crown. At the time of his 
death, there were also arrearages to a large amount 
due to him, for pay. Williaim Penn himself had in 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 7 

common with the religious persuasion of which he 
was a member, suffered considerable persecution; and 
perceiving an opportunity of obtaining some remune- 
ration for his father's debts, and an assylum for him- 
self and oppressed friends by a grant of part of the 
New World, petitioned King Charles the Second in 
June 1680 for a tract of land lying North of the 
patent previously granted to Lord Baltimore, boun- 
ded by tlie Delaware on the East. This request was 
accordingly granted, and letters patent for the desi- 
red tract passed the great Seal on the fourth of March 
1681. 

The considerations stated, were " the commenda- 
ble desire of William Penn, to enlarge the British 
Empire, and promote useful commodities ; to reduce 
the savage natives by just and gentle manners to 
the love of civil society and christian religion," to- 
gether with " a regard to the memory and merits of 
his late father." 

A brief account of the country was immediately 
published, and lands offered for sale on the low terms 
of forty shillings per hundred acres, and one shilling 
per annum for ever. Adventurers numerous, and 
many of them wealthy and respectable, soon offered, 
with whom, articles of agreement Avere entered in- 
to and published under the title of " conditions or 
concessions" chiefly respecting rules of settlement, 
a just and friendly conduct towards the natives, with 
some injunctions as to the preservation of internal or- 
der, and keeping the peace, agreeably to the customs, 
usages and laws of England. 

In May 1681 Penn detached Markham, his rela- 
tion with a small emigration in order to take posses- 
sion of the countr)^ and to prepare it for a more nu- 
merous Colony.* 

In April 1682 was published "the first frame of 
government of the province, consisting of twenty- 

* Chalmer's annals, p. 640. 



8 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

four articles. A body of laws was also agreed upon 
in England with the adventurers, and published in 
the succeeding month. They were partly of a po- 
litical, partly of a moral, and partly ot an economi- 
cal nature, and have been noticed by an acute histo- 
rian, as "doinghonour to their wisdoin as statesmen, 
to their morals as men, to their spirit as Colonists." 
" A plantation" he adds, " reared on such a seed 
plot, could not fail to grow with rapidity, to advance 
to maturity, to attract notice of the world."^ 

Three ships with a body of adventurers sailed 
in 1681, two of which arrived that year. One, the 
Bristol Factor, brought to, off Chester Creek, and the 
river freezing the same night, they went on shore, 
and remained there all winter.f The John and Sarah 
from London had previously arrived. The other ship 
having been blown off to one of the West India 
Islands, arrived in the following year. 

The commissioners appear to have been on board 
the latter ship, for their arrival is mentioned as hav- 
ing taken place in June 1682. William Penn him- 
self having been detained by a variety of concerns, 
did not embark until the month of August followmg. 
Previously to which he procured of the Duke of 
York, a release of his claim upon the province which 
he or his successors might have in consequence of 
the deed to him for the same by King Charles. In 
the same year he obtained from the Duke a grant for 
the land now the State of Delaware, and in the 
month and year just mentioned, embarked in the ship 
Welcome, Robert Greenway, master, with upwards 
of one hundred passengers, for the New World. 
In six weeks they saw the wished for coast, and on 
the 24th of October 1682, he landed at New-Castle 
in Delaware. 



* Ciialmer's annals, p. 643. t Proud 1. p. 193. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 9 

Whatever impressions the inhabitants may have 
received of their future governor from his friends 
who had preceded him, his conduct on his arrival 
was sufficient to ensure their attachment. His fleet 
though numerous, was unaccoinpanled by a single 
ship of war; their fears therefore, if any existed res- 
pecting a hostile assertion of his right must have 
subsided at once. The day subsequent to his arrival 
he summoned the inhabitants, and formally received 
the country of them ; a promise of perpetuating their 
spiritual and temporal rights was made, and the com- 
missions of all the magistrates renewed. 

It was a happy circumstance that out of twenty 
three ships which composed the fleet of emigrants, 
not one was lost. Penn had the satisfaction as he 
proceeded to find every disposition, on the part of the 
original settlers, Dutch and Swedes to welcome his 
arrival, and to submit to his authority. The Swedes 
in particular, who were by far the most numerous, 
volunteered their services in unloadmg the vessels, * 
and in furnishing the passengers with accommoda- 
tions, until they could provide for themselves : and 
as a body, deputed Lacy Cock, one of their promi- 
nent characters, to Chester, to inform him, that " they 
would love, serve and obey him ;" and no doubt hap- 
py that the conflicting pretensions to the soil would 
probably now cease, they added " that it zvas the best 
day they had ever .9<?fc'n."f 

On the Iburth of December 1682 he called an as- 
sembly at Upland, (now Chester,) and passed all the 
laws that had been previously agreed upon in England, 
with some others. The important consideration, the 
great incentive to emigration, claimed of course prima- 
ry attention. The law concerning- liberty of con- 
science, was therefore placed at the head of the list. 



Swedish records. f Proud 1. p. 206. 



10 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

This measure was very natural : the proprietary and 
his friends having suffered greatly on account o- the 
difference of their relig)On, and mode o^ v/orship, 
from that of the established church in ♦- ngland, it 
was to be expected that provision should be made 
for the free exercise of forms of worship peculiar 
to all those who adventured their fortunes under 
his patronage. Some policy was also evinced in placing 
a law respecting a measure so dear to the colonists, 
at the head of those by which they were to be gov- 
erned, for mankind in all ages have evinced a great- 
er attachment to the enjoyment of their religion, 
than the preservation o' their property. 

The title by which William Penn took possession 
of his territory was such as is deemed valid by all na- 
tions-a grant from his King, whose own title was deri- 
ved from the discovery ofthe country by his subjects, 
and by subsequent conquest from those who disputed 
his claim thereto ; but Penn thought it necessary to 
obtain an additional right from the aborigines of the 
soil by fair and open purchase, and thus says an elo- 
quent writer* "signalized his arrival by an act of equi- 
ty which made his person and principles equally belov- 
ed." This measure was so conformable to the pacific 
character and principles of Penn himself, that though 
certainly advised by the Bishop of London,f we 
cannot but believe would have been adopted of his 
own accord. A treaty was therefore held with the 
natives, and the foundation of a friendship estab- 
lished between them, according to which says Penn 
they agreed to "live in love as long as the sun gave 
light." It is not possible to find words more ex- 
pressive tlian those adopted by the Indian orator 
on this occasion, and it was a proof of the sincerity 
with which they were used, that no disposition ap- 



* Ravnal's E. & W. Indies, B. I8th. f Penn's letter. Proud 

1. p. 274. 



INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 11 

peared on either side to interrupt their harmony du- 
ring the life time of any o- the parties. The im- 
pression made upon the minds of the Indians was 
certainly strong respecting the justness and good 
will of Penn towards them, from their frequent men- 
tion of him in treaties held at various times for near 
a century after his death.* The particular spot at 
which the first treaty was held, by tradition is said 
to have been under the venerable elm that lately 
stood on the Delaware shore at Kensington, but of 
this there is no record. The treaty however has 
been immortalized by the pencil of our celebrated 
countryman West; whose grandfather having been 
one of the first settlers, and a prominent character, 
was no doubt present at its ratification. 

Upon a survey of the land on the river, the pre- 
sent site of the City was perceived to be the most 
suitable place for the intended town. The approach 
of the two rivers, the short distance above the mouth 
of the Schuylkill ; the depth of the Delaware ; the 
land heavilv timbered ; the existence of a stratum 
of brick clay on the spot ; immense quarries of build- 
ing stone in the vicinity, all conspired to determine 
Penn in his choice of the spot, but the land was al- 
ready in possession of the Swedes, and justice requi- 
red that their wishes should be consulted respecting 
its occupancy. An exchange of the desired site was 
therefore proposed for land in the vicinity, and hav- 



* Of this there are many i-ecords in treaties preserved. (See 
Proiids history vol. 1. p 2 14.) On one occasion tliey said "they 
should never forget the council that William Penn gave them, 
and that though they could not write, as the English did, yet 
they could keep in the memory, what was said in their councils." 
Brother Onas was the title by which they distinguished Penn, 
and after his death, the State. — In Indian, Onas signifies a Ptn. 



12 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

ing been accepted, the City was laid out. It has 
been transmitted to us, that either under an appre- 
hension of the unwillingness of the proprietors to part 
with their land, or irom their actual refusal, the com- 
missioners previously to the arrival of Penn, had re- 
solved to establish the town about twelve miles up 
the iDelaware. 

Civilized nations have ever been anxious to be 
made acquainted with their origin, and to record 
their progress from the stages of rude society to 
comfort, riches, refinement. The history of the foun- 
ders of Philadelphia is short ; and yet when duly 
weighed is not without interest : for the hand of a 
particular Providence was more than once interposed 
in their behalf, a favour which the pious and grate- 
ful Quakers did not fail to acknowledge and record.* 

The fleet that accompanied Penn, after landing 
their goods at the inlet, now knov^n by the name of 
the dock, then '■'' a sandif beach'''' were laid up for the. 
winter in the creek now occupied by Dock street; the 
iirst attention oi the passengers would of course be 
directed to the means of procuring a shelter Irom 
the elements. The attention of the aborigines was 
great, and the Swedes lent them every assistance, 
which their necessities required, or they themselves 
could afford. Their privations must nevertheless have 
been great. They had left comfortable homes, regu- 
lar establishments, and were now obliged to content 
themselves with bark huts, which the experience of; 
the natives taught them to fashion ; or with caves,! 
which they dug out oi the high bank that overlooked] 



Townsend's testimony. Proud 1. p. 228. 



INTIiODUCTORY HISTORY. 13 

the river Delaware, in which many of them passed 
the first winter. * 

They found a " sky as clear in winter, as in sum- 
mer, not foul thick or black," and the " air, though cold 
and piercing, yet did not require more clothes than in 
England," a circumstance easily explained by the 
fact, that it was " dry." The grateful nourishing- 
grain Mayz, or Indian corn, was lound native, and 
wild animals abounded,! and such was their tame- 
ness, that they became an easy prey. The river tur- 
nished varieties of fish, the land was fertile, and as 
the habits of the settlers induced them to omit no 
opportunity of providing against the future, famine, 
which had desolated some of the other American 
colonies, never visited Pennsylvania. 

Dean Prideaux says:); that Penn had the celebrated 
city of Babylon in view as a model lor his American 
town, and from the draft given by the learned divine, 
the idea as far as regularity was concerned, appears 
to have been v/ell founded. It would seem also that 
Penn wished, or thought it practicable to emulate the 
size at least of the Chaldean capital, for he gave or- 
ders to his commissioners to lay out a town in the 
proportion of two hundred acres for every ten thou- 
sand sold, in which the purchasers of five hundred 
acres were to have ten. The whole amount sold, 
having been nearly four hundred thousand acres, the 
city would have covered an area uf eight thousand 



* In one of these caves the first Pennsylvanian, John Key was 
born, -who lived to see a regular city built where a wilderness 
had stood. He died 1767, aged 8-5. 

f Venn's letter to the society of " Free Traders." A deer 
cost two shillings, a large turkey one shilling; corn was two and 
sixpence per bushel— Townsend's testimony in Proud's history, 
vol. l.p.229. , ^ 

1 History of the connexion of the old and new Testament, vol. 1. 



14 INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. 

acres. It was soon perceived that a town in which 
some of the purchasers were entitled to 400 acres 
each, some to 200 acres, more to 100 and other large 
proportions, would never answer the end of a city 
in a new country, where from the numerous wants 
necessarily incident to first settlers in a wilderness, 
and especially of protection, trade, and society, a thick 
settled neighbourhood was of the first consequence. 
Instead there ore of a town of twelve and a half square 
miles, which the original plan had it been executed, 
would have occupied, one of less than two square 
miles, or about twelve hundred acres was laid out. 
According to this plan, a draught of which was 
liiade by the surveyor general, Thomas Holme, and 
is still extant, the city extended two squares over the 
Schuylkill ; this plan was transmitted by the pro- 
prietary to London, and there prefixed to a long 
printed letter addressed to a large company of ori- 
ginal purchasers under the title of "the society of 
free traders," in which a general description of the 
country, its production, and of the natives is given. 
But this plan was again contracted, and by charter 
of 1701, the city was declared to be bounded by the 
two rivers Delaware and Schuylkill ; and Vine and 
('edar streets, as North and South boundaries. 

The first house erected in Philadelphia was a 
wooden one, on the East side of Front street, a little 
North of the place now called " the Dock ;" and is 
said not to have been finished when Wm. Penn first: 
arrived. The owner, George Guest, kept a public 
house there, for many years ; his sign was a blue 
anchor; this house in early times was a distin- 
guished place of resort from its vicinity to one of 
the two landings, with which the town was accommo- 
dated. The back part of the house now occupied by 
J. Keen, currier, in Chesnut, opposite Carpenter's 
court, was among the first (if not the first) brick 



TOPOGRAPHICAL BESCKIPTIOX. 15 

buildings in the city ; it was built by David 
Brientniill. William Pcnn's couiitry house was on 
the Delaware, at Pennsbury manor abovf. Bristol, 
the frame of which had been sent out from England 
in the first fleet, but the building was not completed 
when he aiTived. Here he had a large hall of audi- 
ence for the reception of the sovereigns of the soil, 
with whom nineteen treaties were held bv^ him. His 
oaken arm chair is preserved in the Penns}'lvania hos- 
pital. 

Topographical Dcsc r'lption. 

Philadelphia lies on a plain nearly level, and on the 
Western bank of the river Delaware, in 39 degrees 57 
minutes of North latitude, and 75 degrees 8 min- 
utes of longitude, W^est of London. It is about 
120 miles distant from the ocean, by the course of 
the river, and 60 in a direct line : its elevation above 
low water mark ranges irom two to forty-six ieet, 
the highest part being between Seventh and Eighth 
streets, Irom Schuylkill. 

It derived its name from a city in Asia Minor, 
celebrated in sacred history, for iis having been the 

seat of an early christian church.* The Indian 

name of the place where the city now stands, was 
Co-a-que-na-que. 

The immediate substratum of Philadelphia is 
clay of various hues and degrees of tenacit} , mix- 
ed with more or less sand, or sand and gravel. 



* The city is about twenty-four miles E:ist of Sardis, and 
seventy-two from Smyrna, and was the last city in tijose quar- 
ters that submitted to the Tuiks, after a terrible siege oi' six \ cars. 

It was to this church that St. John was directed U) wriie a 
consolatory and duective epistle Rev lii — 7- 13. The iimne is 
comi)osed of two Greek words JPhiios, a friend, and Adelphos, a 
brother. 



10 TOPOGRAPIIIGAL DESCRIPTION. 

Underneath, at various depths, from twenty to near!} 
forty feet, and also on the opposite shore of New- 
Jersey, are found a variety of vegetable remains, 
which evidently appear to have been left there in 
remote periods of time by the retiring waters : hickory 
nuts were found a fcAV years since in digging a well, 
upwards of thirty feet beneath the surface, and the 
trunk of a Sycamore (buttonwood) tree was discovered 
m Seventh near Mulberry street, near forty feet below, 
imbedded in black mud, abounding with leaves and 
acorns. About 60 feet distance from that place, and 
nearly at the same depth, a bone was found ; the 
stratum above was a tough potter's clay. In vari- 
ous other parts of the city, and even at the distance of 
several miles in the country, similar discoveries have 
been made. Shark's teeth are occasionally dug up many 
feet below the surface, near Mount Holly. All these 
facts seem to prove the truth of the opinion first de- 
livered by our countryman, Lewis Evans, that the 
site of Philadelphia formed part of the sea, whose 
coast was bounded by a reef of rocks*, some two, 
three, or six miles broad, rising generally a lit- 
tle higher than the adjoining land, and extending 
from New York, westwardly by the i'alls of Dela- 
ware, Schuylkill, Susquehannah, Gunpowder, Pa- 
tapsco, Potomack, Rappahannock, James River, and 
Roanoak, vfhich was the ancient maritime boundary, 
and forms a regular curve. The clay and other soil 
which compose the borders of tlie rivers descending 
from the upland through this tract, are formed by 
the soil washed down with the floods, and mixed 
^'/ith the sand left by the sea. 



"They are formed of Gneiss, Micaceous Schistus and other 
nrlmitive rockj. 



VARIOUS PLANS OF THE CITY. 17 

A lew streams of water originally crossed part of 
the city plot ; but these in the course of improvement 
have entirely disappeared. 

The depths of the wells are various in different 
parts of the city. In the vicinity of the river, water 
is found at the depth of ten or twelve feet. From the 
number of causes serving to contaminate the springs 
in all cities, the water may be reasonably supposed 
to be impure and of a disagreeable taste. In 1799 
Mr. Hunter, apothecary, evaporated 220 gallons of 
water from a pump in Second below Dock street, and 
found it to contain the following ingredients, 
12 oz. Chalk. 17 oz. Magnesia. 

32 oz. Salt Petre. 24 oz. Common sea salt. 

Various Flans of the City. 

The original plan was made by Thomas Holme, 
the first Surveyor General, in the year 1683, and 
sent to England, where it Vv^as published, and annex- 
ed to William Penn's letter addressed to ''the Soci- 
ety of Free Traders," who were the largest origi- 
nal purchasers of land. By this the city consisted of 
nine streets running East and West, including 
High street, near the centre of one hundred feet 
broad, and twenty streets (besides Broad street of one 
liundred feet,) crossing the others at right angles. 
Front street on both rivers was sixty feet broad, all 
the rest were fifty feet. In the center was left a square 
of ten acres, at each angle of which, public buildings 
were to be erected, and in each quarter of the city, a 
square of eight acres" lor ••' the like uses as the Moor- 
fields in London."* How little this excellent pro- 



• Moorfields were the great g-jmnusium of London, the resort 
of wrestlers, runners, and foot-ball players, and every manly re- 
creation. — I'tnnant'b account of London. 
B 2 



IS VARIOUS PLANS OF THE CITY. 

vision has been attended to, will be seen in the 
sequel. 

In the year 1768 Nicholas Scull made a survey 
of the improved parts of the city, which then extend- 
ed no farther than Eighth street. It was published 
by the late Matthew Clarkson and Hannah Biddle, 
and is a useful document, as serving to shew the pre- 
cise state of improvement at that time. 

In the year 1796 John Hill published a large plan 
of the city. 

In the year 1794 Benjamin Davies published one, 
including theNoithern Liberties and Southwark, dis- 
tinguishing by shaded squares the parts then improv- 
ed. 

In 1808 Mr. Hill, above mentioned, published a 
map of a circle, ten miles round Philadelphia, inclu- 
ding New Jersey which gives a good idea of the 
country embraced by it. 

Mr. J. A. Paxton has recently published a very 
accurate map of the city and liberties, with a pam- 
phlet explanatory ol the same, which cannot fail to be 
highly useful as a statistical document, and to stran- 
gers will be particularly valuable. 

In 1782, a law was passed for the regulation of 
the streets, of the natural water courses, and the 
common sewers ; and city regulators* appointed to 
execute the duty thus enjoined. By them the north 
and south lines of the city were marked agreeably to 
law, and also the lines of all the streets, and plans 
formed of them, which are preserved in the city sur- 
veyor's office. 



* J. Lukens, David Rittenhouse, Thomas Neville, William 
MoiUder, and James I'earson. 



DEI^UVARE AND SCHUYLKILL. 19 

The river Delaware is formed by the union of 
two streams that take their origin in the state of 
New York, and flowing south, receives the Lexawac- 
sein creek in Wayne county, one hundred and 
fourteen miles above Easton : the Lehigh at Eas- 
ton sixty miles above Philadelphia, and the Schuyl- 
kill as already stated, six miles below the city, besides 
many creeks on the Jersey and Pennsylvania sides. 
Opposite to the city it is thirteen hundred and six- 
ty two yards wide, and so far is navigable for ves- 
sels of any tonnage : vessels of lesser burthen go thirty 
miles higher to Trenton falls, at which place the tide 
ceases. Off the city it rises five or six leet in common 
times, but during long continued and violent north- 
east winds, it rises from seven to nine feet. On the 
contrary, during strong north-west winds, very low 
tides have been known, and rocks have been discover- 
ed with the naked eye near the upper ferry on the Jer- 
sey shore. These were seen in March 1769, and again 
in March 1 796. They were then seven or eight feet 
out of water, and eighteen feet across, bearing the 
initials of many names. In February 1810, they were 
two feet out. The Indian name oi the Delaware was 
Poutaxat. 

The Schuylkill, the western boundary of the city, 
rises in Luzerne countv, one hundred and forty miles 
from its mouth. It is navigable irom the falls above 
Philadelphia in boats, about ninety miles. From its 
mouth, six miles below Philadelphia, to the falls, 
loaded sloops go up, a distance about seven miles. 
On a range with Vine street, it measures 1264 feet ; 
on a range with Cedar street, it measures 2040 feet. 

Most of our rivers, retain their Indian names ; but 
Schuylkill signifies in low Dutch, a "hidden river," or 
hiding river, an appellation derived in all probability 
from the circumstance of the secret settlements of 
the people of Maryland upon its shores, or from its 



20 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

running into the interior, beyond the researches of 
the settlers. Dr. Collin* says that it was also called 
"Skserk;ll," in the Swedish publications. Holme, in his 
mapf calls it Nittabaconck. Ma-nai-unk is another 
Indian name. 

General Description. 

Philadelphia now consists of the original nine 
streets running East and West from Delaware to 
Schuylkill, and thirteen crossing the others nearly at 
right angles : of the former, High street which is near 
the centre, is one hundred feet broad, and Mulberry:|: 
sixty-six feet : all the rest are fifty feet. Those running 
north and south are all fifty feet in breadth, except 
Broad street, which is one hundred and thirteen feet 
broad. Juniper street between Broad and Thirteenth 
street, which is twenty eight feet, and Front streets 
on both rivers which are sixty feet broad. 

There are also four streets that run to Schuylkill, 
from different distances eastward, viz. Lombard 
from Front street, Locust from the south-east pub- 
lic square ; George from Sixth street ; Filbert from 
Eighth street ; Cherry from third street ; all these 
are about fiity feet wide except Cherry and George 
streets, which are about forty feet. There are thir- 
teen streets from Delaware to Broad street, and 
eight from the latter to Schuylkill. By the original 
plan as before noticed. Broad street was placed ex- 
actly in the middle, eleven streets being each side 
of it. 



* Minister of the Swedish church. 

+ Inserted in his account of New Sweden. 

i This street has derived its name of " /irch street" from the 

circumstance of an arch liaving been built under Front street to 

effect a passage to the river. This arch was removed in 1720 by 

the corporation of tiic City. 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 21 

The streets running east and west are named, with 
the exception of High street, from the native trees-. 
Beginning at the northern boundary ; they are Vine, 
Sassafras, Mulberry, (High), Chesnut, Walnut, 
Spruce, Pine, and Cedar streets. Union street be- 
tween Spruce and Pine, was not an original street, 
and runs only irom Front to Fourth street. The 
streets running north and south, derive their names 
from their numeral order, counting irom each river, as 
Front, Second, Third, &c. The streets were laid out 
N. 18 degrees E. In 1742 they were found to be 
15 degrees E. At present they are nine degrees.— 
The variation ot the compass is two degrees west. 

Besides the foregoing, there are many other streets 
not in the original plot, that have been laid out either 
by the state government or individuals, somevof which 
extend through from where they commence, to the 
Schuylkill, others only through one or more squares. 
Among these may be mentioned, that laid out bv 
William Sansom, esq. situate between Chesnut and 
IWalnut streets, and west of Seventh street. — It is 
Isixty feet wide ; the houses ai-e built agreeably to his 
plan, strictly uniform in height and external appear- 
ance. In Walnut also between seventh and eighth 
istreets, and Second above Callowhill street, rows of 
houses have been built, or caused to be built by him, 
which have greatly tended to ornament the city, and 
accommodate the inhabitants. 

Ot the north and south streets, three have been 
iformed, in the following way. Originally the distance 
jfrom Eleventh to Broad street was five hundred and 
■twenty eight feet, but by a new applotment. Broad 
istreet was placed farther westward, and hence two 
inew squares were formed, the easternmost of which 
is three hundred and ninety-six feet long, and the 
west five hundred and twenty-eight feet ; through 
the middle of the latter. Juniper street was laid 



23 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

out by order of the executive council during the 
war. Twelfth and Thirteenth streets were added, of 
fifty feet each. Broad street was originally one hun- 
dred feet broad, but in regulating the several squares 
from Eighth street westward, thirteen feet of sur- 
plus ground were found, which were of course added 
to Broad street. 

Dock strett is the only street in the city, not cross- 
ed by another at right angles. Beginning at the 
Bridge in Front sreet, it extends northward in a 
serpentine tract, through two squares, across Second 
*and Walnut streets, and terminates at Third street ; 
another branch of it extends south westward, across 
Spruce street, and terminates at Second street ; the 
ground occupied by this street, and by an open space 
between it and Spruce street* below the bridge, was 
formerly a swamp and was given by William Penn 
" for the common use and service of the city, and 
all others, with liberty to dig docks, and make har- 
bours for ships and vessels, in all or any part of 
the said swampf". The creek it was supposed would 
prove a great convenience to the inhabitants, by the 
facility it would afford of transporting fuel to the 
interior ; and a wooden draw -bridge was erected near 
the mouth oi the inlet, to admit cra't up. The sides 
of the canal were also supported by stone walls ; but 
the small force of the current favouring the disposi- 
tion of the mud suspended in the water, occasioned 
a rapid accumulation of it, and at low water was high- 
ly offensive : it was thereiore at an early period arched 
from Third to Walnut street. In 1784, the arch was 
continued to near Spruce street. It was however used 
as a canal in early times, and a respectable citizen now 
living, relates, that the late Israel Pemberton pointed 
out the place, where a sloop once lay that was 
consigned to him xrom Barbadoes, loaded with rum. 

* Now a board yard. \ Charter of the tity. 



GEXEKAL DESCRIPTION. 25 



It was on the spot where now stands the building 
lately occupied by the United States bank.* By the 
arching ol the dock, a handsome airy street, trom 
ninety to one hundred feet wide, has been acquired. 
Water street, which is about thirty feet wide, 
runs from the North line of the city, and beyond 
it, to the bridge landmg, formed no part of the 
original plan : it was left as a convenient communi- 
cation irom the '' Pennypot landing" at Vine street, 
to the " Blue Anchor," at the bridge ; the high bank 
along the Delaware, preventing access to the VVest- 
Iwardat other places. In the year 1684, an address 
j had been presented to the proprietary by those con- 
cerned in the front lots, claiming the privilege to build 
stoi-es against the bank ; and to use them as their 
right : in answer to which Penn declared his intention 
to reserve " the top of the bank, as a common exchange 
or walk," but permitted " stores to be built," expressly 
providing that they should not be raised higher than 
four feet above the bank. One of these stores built 
. upon this plan, is to be seen at this day in front above 
Sassalras street. In 1690, during his residence in Eng- 
land, an appeal was made to the commissionei's of pro- 
perty, on the subject, who yielding to the solicitations 
of the inhabitants, formally granted, in writing, liberty 
to build as high as they pleased, provided they left thir- 
ty feet Oi ground tor a cart way under and along the 
i said bank for ever ; when necessary, they were re- 
> quired to wharf out, in order to preserve the proper 
: breadth : those willing to have steps up into their 
houses, were required to leave convenient room to 
make the same upon their own ground ; and between 
two adjoining public streets, there was to be left 

* After the cyeekhad been stopped out, Mr. Pemberton occiu 
pied the ground as a garden, which ran parallel with Third 
street to his house, situated on the spot now occupied by the 
Farmers and Mechanics bank, and by the house east of it. 



24 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

at least ten feet of ground for a public stairs, 
clear of all buildings over the same. The permis- 
sion was gladly accepted, and the whole bank has in 
consequence, been built upon ; and not a house as 
far as Pine street, has a single foot of yard room. 

This deviation from the original plan is much to be 
regretted, as had that been adhered to, a pleasing view 
of the Delaware from Front street would have been 
obtained, and thus have not only added greatly to 
the beauty of the city, but have admitted a refresh- 
ing body of air from the river, and prevented the ac- 
cumulation of filth, which, to the great injury of the" 
inhabitants, has, and ever will be the consequence of: 
the erection of dwellings in such confined situations. 

Southward of Pine street, there is an offset of: 
about eighty feet eastward, and the street from thence 
to Cedar street, the southern boundary of the city, 
is forty-five feet wide, and called Penn street. 

The elevations of the streets and water courses 
are regulated by the mayor, recorder, and aldermen, 
with the assistance oi city svirveyors ; but the duty 
is in general entrusted to the latter, except on par- 
ticular occasions. 

In the beginning of the settlement it was expected, 
that the fronts on both rivers would be first improv- 
ed for the convenience of trade and navigation, andl 
that the buildings would extend gradually in the rear 
of each until they would meet and form one town, 
extending from East to West, but experience soon 
convinced the settlers that the Delaware front was^ 
alone sufficient for quays and landing places, andj 
that the Schuylkill lay at too great a distance to ibrm 
part of the town on its banks ; the greater depth of 
water and the navigation of the Delaware were also 
reasons that soon operated with the settlers to cause 
a preference to be given to the eastern front ; whence 
it followed, that the town increased northward and 



GKX'ERAL DESCRIPTION. 25 

seuthward of the origiaal plot, upon the Delaware 
front, and now occupies a space nearly three miles in 
length. North and South, while the buildings in the 
middle, where they are most extended, reach little 
more than a mile from the Delaware. 

The wharves are built of square casements of logs, 
filled in with earth and stone. — The city is lighted by 
1132 lamps, inclosed in glass lantherns, fixed on the 
tops of posts placed on the edges of the foot-way. — - 
The lamps under the market houses are lighted eveiy 
evening at dusk, and continue burning until daylight. 
The other lamps are lighted only on those nights 
when the moon does not give sufficient light — 14,355 
gallons of lamp-oil wei'e used last year. 

The improved parts oi the city are paved with 

round stones, brought from the bed of the river at 

Trenton falls. The foot-ways are paved with brick, 

and raised on a level with the highest part of the 

street, and defended from the approach of carriages 

by ranges of curb stone. The expense of these are 

I borne by the owners of houses. The middle of the 

j street is a few inches higher than the part next the 

I pavement, and as the descent is gradual, the water runs 

off with facility, and passes off by the culverts, (the 

mouths of which open in various streets) to the river. 

The houses are from two to four stories high, and 

are built of brick, the superiority of which is well 

; known throughout the United States. 

!j In general, the houses are covered with cedar shin- 

I gles, but slate is rapidly coming into use, and will it 

j is hoped, be universally used. The style of architec- 

Iture has hitherto been very plain, and a degree of 

uniformity has prevailed, which to intelligent stran- 

'" gers has always appeared a striking defect. The flights 

of steps and the cellar doors protruding into the 

pavement, and diminishing its breadth, are striking 

errors. — The internal construction of dwellings sel- 

c 






26 GENERAL DESCRIPTION, 

dom permit the use of a stove in the entries, although 
obviously required by the nature or our climate, and 
essential to the comfort, nay health of delicate con- 
stitutions. 

Of late however, an evident improvement has ta- 
ken place, and there can be no doubt, that if a good 
example were set, an entire revolution would take 
place. The front walls of the houses are fourteen 
mches thick, and the internal walls nine inches. 

The edges of the pavements are planted in many 
streets with Lombardy Poplars, for the introduc- 
tion of which we are indebted to William Hamilton 
Esq. who brought them from England about the year 
1784. They serve not only greatly to ornament the 
city, but to promote public health by the circulation 
of air they produce, and the shade they afford during 
summer : — enough to overbalance the trifling incon- 
venience arising irom the tendency of the roots to 
force up the pavement, and which has been offered 
as an argument against their propagation in the 
city. 

The number of squares originally was 1 84, but at 
present they amount to 252, — Their dimensions are 
as follows, 
From Delaware Front street to 

Second street . . 396 Feet 

Second to Third . , 500 

Third to Fourth . , 375 

Fourth to Fifth . . 401 

Fifth to Sixth . . .398 

Sixth to Thirteenth, each square is 396 
Thirteenth to Juniper . 250 

Juniper to Broad . . 250 

Broad to Third, each . 396 

Third to Second . . 495 

Second to P'ront . . . 396 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION. '27 

The above squares are co-extensive with the city 
North and South. 

From Front to Ashton street 273 feet, at 

all places, except North of Sassafras and Vine, 
where the width of said square is only 264 feet 
Ashton to Beech . . 240 

Beech to Willow . . .267 
Beech is open to Locust, and Willow to Pine street. 
The dimensions of the squares from North to 
South, according to Mr. Howell, city surveyor, are 
From Vine to Sassafras . . 632 feet 

Sassafras to Cherry . . 288 

Cherry to Mulberry . 288 

Mulberry to Filbert . . 307 

Filbert to High . . 30G 

High to Chesnut . . . 484 

Chesnut to George . .233 

George to Walnut , . 235 

Walnut to Locust . . . 370 
Locust to Spruce t • 400 

Spruce to Pine . . • 473 

Pine to Lombard . . . 282 
Lombard to Cedar . . 322 

From High to Vine street, the measurement was 
taken along the streets respectively in all parallels. — 
From High street Southward, the measurement was 
taken along Broad street, and applies Eastward and 
Westward. — Thus the distance from the Northern 
to the Southern boundary of the city proper is 4,322 
feet, and from Delaware to Schuylkill, along High 
street, is 4,893 feet. 

Shortly after the incorporation of the city, a law 
was passed for numbering the houses, and marking 
the streets, lanes, and alleys at every intersection 
with each other, — a measure which together with the 
regularity of the streets, greatly facilitates the stran- 
ger in his search for a citizen. The numbers in the 



28 GENERAL DESCRIPTIOX. 

Streets lying East and West, begin with No. 1, on 
the North J and No. 2, on the South sides at the 
river Delaware, or other Eastern commencement of 
the street, and proceed westward ; all the houses 
marked with odd numbers, are on the North side of 
the waj% and all those marked with even numbers, 
on the South. 

The numbers in the streets lying North and South, 
begin at the corners of High street, with No. 1, on 
the East, and No. 2. on the West side. High street 
is considered as the middle line of division, and the 
parts of these lying North of it, has the addition of 
North to their names, and those lying South, the addi- 
tion of South ; the numbers proceed North and South 
from High street, having all the odd numbers on the 
East, and all the even numbers on the West side. 
A board is fixed up at eveiy intersection, on which 
the names of the streets, crossing one another, are 
painted. 

Previously to 1800, the city was divided into 
wards in a very irregular manner, but in that year 
the following judicious arrangement was made. 

The city was divided into fourteen wards, seven 
of which commence at the river Delaware and end 
at Fourth street, and seven begin at Fourth street and 
continue to the river Schuylkill or western boundary 
of the city. The regular plan of the streets into North 
and South, East and West, favours this division, , 
which will be readily understood by the following 
plan. 



PLAN OF THE 14 WARDS OF PHILADELPHIA. 

NORTH. 



29 





Vine 


a 
< 

w 

H 
P^ 
o 

'A 

c 

q 

(A 


-i'^ree^ 




North Mulberry ward. 


Upper Delaware ward. 




J^ace or 


Sassafras Street. 




South Mulberry ward. 


Lower Delaware ward. 




Arch or 


Mulberry Street. 


1 


North ward. 


High Street ward. 


o 


Market or 


Hig-h Street. 


< 
g 


Middle ward. 


Chesnut ward. 


^ 


Chesnut 


Street. 


i 


South ward. 


Walnut ward. 


Wabiut 


Street. 


■r 


Locust ward. 


Dock ward. 




Spruce 


Street. 




Cedar ward. 


New Market ward. 


'! 


South or 


Cedar Street. 



SOUTH, 
C 2 



30 - POPULATION. 

When William Penn first came to this country^ 
he found it possessed by about three thousand Euro- 
peans, Swedes, Dutch, and English, who were scat- 
tered from New-Castle to the falls of Delaware. Two 
thousand of his countrymen accompanied him from 
England, and in two years after, when he embarked 
to return, he left eighty houses and cottages in the 
capital. Population flowed in rapidly from a variety 
of causes. The religious bigotry of the English gov- 
ernment had rendered a large body of industrious 
people much dissatisfied ; the character of Penn 
stood high with his sect, and he was known to be a 
favourite at court. The patent for the tract of land, had 
been drawn by an able statesman, under an express in- 
junction that it should "give sufficient encouragement 
to settlers :" it was particularly dictated, so as to 
avoid those disputes that had occurred in the case 
of the colony of Massachusetts, and afforded security 
from the interference by an arbitrary court which was 
of no small importance. But the liberal principles 
adopted by Penn in the " conditions with the settlers," 
contributed perhaps more than any other cause to the 
increase of population. Property was secured to the 
labouring class, by the allotment of " fifty acres to 
a servant at the end ot his time." To men deprived of 
all hopes of power or office by the existence of privi- 
leged orders, it was a strong inducement to emigrate, 
that " all inhabitants paying scot and lot to the go- 
vernment shall be eligible as a representative of the 
people ;" a provision embracing a greater number 
by the addition of another article, that " no person 
shall enjoy more than one public office at a time." 
Confidence was given to those disposed to supply 
the wants of the colonists, by compelling " factors, 
wronging their employers, to make satisfaction, and 
one third over ;" and religious controversy could 
irot disturb their repose, when none, " acknowledging 



POPULATION. 31 

. ! me Almighty God, and living peaceably in society, 
L could be molested for their religion, nor compelled to 
\ frequent or maintain any religious ministry what- 
I ever." 

|j In the short space of three years after the settle- 
i ment of Penn, fifty sail of vessels arrived, filled with 
■ passengers from different countries. The tyranny of 
the German Princes contributed greatly to this num- 
ber. So many of their subjects arrived at an early date, 
that government was alarmed at their increase ; but 
their habits were industrious and retired, and dis- 
persing in various directions, they diffused im- 
provements, and silently, but steadily contributed 
in an eminent degree to the prosperity of the coun- 
try. 





Dwelling houses. 


Inhabitants 


In 1683* there were 


80 




1700 


700 




1749t 


2,076 




1753 


2,300 


14,563 


1760 


2,960 


18,756 


1769 


4,474 


28,042 


1776 


5,460 




1783 


6,000 




1790 


6,651 






415 Stores and 


Workshops, 


1801 


11,200 




18051 


13,461 





* Penn's letter. Proud 1. p. 263. i Robinson's Directory. 

f The enumeration of 1749, was made by citizens of the first 
respectability. 

Mulberry ward, by Dr. Franklin — Dock ward, Joseph Ship- 
pen.~Lower Delaware, William Allen, ((Jhief Justice)— Upper 



32 



POPULATIOJf. 



The followhig enumeration from the Directory^ was 
taken by James Robinson and John A. Paxton in 
November^ 1810. By which it appears the city con- 
tains thirteen thousand two hundred and forty one 
Buildings^ of which seven hundred and thirty seven 
are new. 





Brick 


Frame 


Total 


Dwelling Houses 


- 6351 


2523 


8874 


Store Houses 


1053 


159 


1212 


Manufacturing Buildings 


161 


69 


230 


Public Buildings 


- 131 


25 


156 


Stables, Workshops, &c. 


944 


1825 


2769 



Totals. 8640 4601 13241 

Northern Liberties^ built part f exclusive of Kensing' 
ton) contains four thousand two hundred and eigh- 
ty^ of which txvo hundred and seventy-two are 

New. 



Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 
Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 



Brick 
1556 
93 
42 
10 
64 



Frame 

1442 

76 

49 

9 

939 



Total 

2998 

169 

91 

19: 

1003 



Totals. 1765 2515 4280! 



Delaware, Thomas Hopkinson. — South ward and Southern sub-; 
urbs, Edward Shippen. — High street, Thomas Lawrence, ju 
Walnut, William llumphi-eys. — Chesnut, Joseph Turner. — NortI 
■ward and Northern suburbs, Dr. William Shippen — Middle ward^ 
William Coleman. 

The alteration of the division of the wards in 1830, renders 5 
impossible to judge of the comparative increase of population j 
the several quarters of the city. 



POPULATION. 53 

Penn Toxunship^ built parts, contains nine hundred atid 
thirty-six Buildings ^ of which Jifty seven are Nexv. 





Brick 


Frame 


Total 


Dwelling Houses 


- 225 


292 


517 


Store Houses 


. 


2 


2 


Manufacturing Buildings 


- 4 


8 


12 


Public Buildings 


2 


3 


o 


Stables, Workshops, &c. 


- 76 


324 


400 



Totals. 307 629 936 

Kensington contains eight hundred and sixty nine 
Buildings, of xvhich ffty-two are New* 

Brick Frame Total 
Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 
Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 

Totals. 205 664 869 

Southwark, built parts, contaiyis two thousand seven 
hundred and thirty-nine buildings, of which one 
hundred and txuenty-eight are New. 

Brick Frame Total 



184 


431 


615 


1 


8 


9 


5 


5 


10 


1 


3 


4 


14 


217 


231 



Dwelling Houses 


834 


1466 


2301 


Store Houses 


36 


32 


68 


Manufacturing Buildings 


10 


19 


29 


Public Buildings 


8 


5 


13 


Stables, Workshops, &c. 


14 


314 


328 



Totals, 902 1837 2739 



-34 POPULATIO^^. 

Moyamensing and Passifiink^ north of Federal road^ 
contains seven hundred and four buildings^ oj xvhkh 
forty-nhie are Next;. 



Dwelling Houses 
Store Houses 
Manufacturing Buildings 
Public Buildings 
Stables, Workshops, &c. 



Brick Frame Total 



82 


427 


509 


1 


1 


2 


5 


7 


12 


5 


3 


8 


16 


157 


173 



Totals. 109 595 704. 
^a all 15,814 dwelling HousesX 



POPULATION. 



53 



The following table will serve to shew the progres- 
sive population oi the city and liberties, more particu- 
larly, since the establishment of the federal govern- 
ment. 





FREE 
WHITES 


SLAVES 


FREE PER- 
SONS NOT 
TAXED 


TOTAL 


1790. 










City 


26,918 


193 


1,411 


28,522 


Northern Liberties 


8,129 


34 


174 


8,337 


Southwark 


5,421 


29 


211 


5,661 


Passyunk 


833 




52 


884 


Moyamensing 


1,394 




298 


1,592 


1800. 










City 


36,955 


55 


4,210 


41,220 


Northern Liberties 


16,010 




960 


16,970 


Southwark 


8,773 




848 


9,621 


Passymik 


831 




53 


884 


Moyamensing 


1,294 




298 


1,592 


1810. 










City 


47,368 


2* 


6,352j 


53,722 


Northern Liberties 


20,348 




1,210 


21,558 


Southwark 


12,327 




1,380 


13,707 


Passyunk 


968 




24 


992 


Moyamensing 


2,178 




709 


2,887 


Penn:t^ 


3,640 




158 


3,798 



* See account of the abolition Society, 
f Robinson's Directory for l8ll, states the nuinber of blacks 
•it 9,607. 

i Formerly part of Northern Liberties. 



S6 POPULATION. 

In 1790 the total inhabitants of the 14 city wards 
by the general census, was 28,522 

Slaves . . 193 

Free persons not taxed 1,411 

1,604 

26,918 

In 1800, . • . 41,220 

Slaves . . 55 

Free persons not taxed 4,210 

4,265 

36,955 



Increase 10,037; 

In 1810, . . . 53,722 

Slaves .... 2 
Free persons not taxed 6,352 

6354 

47,368 



Increase 10,413 



In 1 800 the number of inhabitants in the built parts 
of the Northern Liberties was 10,718 }' 

Free persons not taxed 714 



I 
i 
10,0041 



In 1810, 19,874 

Free persons not taxed 1,137 



18,73! 



Increase 8,73 



In 1 800 the number of inhabitants in the built partj' 
of Southwark, was 6414 

Free persons not taxed 565 

5,84i 



POPULATION. 37 

In 1810, in Southwark and Moyamensing, built 
parts 14,796 

Free persons not taxed 2,038 

• ■ 12,758 



Increase 6,909 
The above returns have been taken from the origi- 
nal documents in the marshal's office, and the accu- 
racy oi the results may be depended on. In forming 
anestimate of the city population, only the thickly built 
parts of Southw^ark, Passyunk, and Mo's'amensing, 
adjoining the southern quarter of the city, liave been 
taken into the account ; the same rule has been ob- 
served with respect to the Northern Liberties. Had 
the scattered population been taken into considera- 
tion, the sum total of the whites would have been in- 
creased in 1810, to about 2,000 sovds more. The 
whole population of the citv and county of Philadel- 
phia in 1810, was 111,210.* 

Every one knows that Philadelphia has suffered 
severely by the American pestilence, commonly cal- 
led yellow fever, and as it may be satisfactory to know 
the number of deaths in different years, and they will 
serve to shew how much greater would have been our 
increase, had we had no pestilence, the following 
statement is given. 

DEATHS. j DEATHS. 

In the year 1793. | In the year 1797. 

August, . 361 August . 303 

September . . 1,514 | September . . 579 

October . 2,045 October . 386 

November . 82 November . 24 



4,002 1,292 

* The population of the city of New York, embracing' the 
•^^-hole island, is 96,372. 

D 



POPULATION, 

DEATHS. DEATHS. 

In the year 1798. I In the year 1799. 



August . 626 I August . 375 

September . . 2,004 September . 46j 



October . 943 | October . 175 

November . 64 j 

I 1,015 

3,637 I 



DEATHS 




In the year 1802. 




August 


262 


September 


. 284 


October 


289 



Thus in five years we lost ten thousand seven, 
hundred and eighty-one persons. The same disease 
prevailed in one thousand seven hundred and ninety 
four, five and six, with more violence than in 1802,. 
but no particular account was kept of the deaths by it. 

Several reasons may be assigned why the popula- 
tion of the city has increased so rapidly, notwith- 
standing numerous attacks of a sweeping pestilence, 
,^ince the Census of 1790. 

1st. From the ease with which a competence is 
obtained, the number of marriages is very great. 
Futurity never enters into the calculation of a cou- 
ple desirous of uniting ; they know that whatever be 
the calling of the man, he can easily make more than 
will support his family, if he be industrious, and 
blest v/ith health. 

2d. The great encouragement given to every class 
of mechanics, induces more ofthem to settle here than! 
m other cities. 



POPULATION. 35 

3d. A general amelioration of the public health — 
This happy effect is to be ascribed to the following 
causes : 

1st. The arching of the creek, running from near 
Spruce in the site of Dock street. The intention 
of leaving this creek by the original proprietor, Vv 11- 
liam Penn, has been already mentioned, and with 
this view, its banks were supported by stone walls ; 
but its bed filled so rapidly with mud, that it became 
useless as a canal for boats, and for many years re- 
mained a great nuisance. It was the receptacle of 
an immense mass of animal and vegetable offall mat- 
ters, which poisoned the air by the exhalations arising 
from them, and the muddy bed, by the action of the 
sun on them when the tide was out. A conviction of 
its injurious effects, induced Doctor Rush to point it 
out as a proper object of legislative attention, and re- 
commended the arching of it as a measure essen- 
tially connected with the health of the city. The 
people of the present day, who now enjoy the great 
advtmtage of an airy street, and see the large stores 
built in place of the receptacles of poverty, vice, 
and filth, will learn with astonishment, that a violent 
opposition was made to the measure by many citi- 
zens, and that the benevolent and patriotic guardian of 
the public health, " stood alone" among his breth- 
ren in the recommendation of the measure. After 
a full discussion of the question by the legislature, a 
law was passed in 1784 for arching the creek. It is a 
fact, that typhus fevers generally ,5 and the destruc- 
tive cholera, or bowel complaint which destroyed so 
great a proportion of the children under the age of 
18 months, who were within the influence of the 
pestilential air of this dock, have diminished so evi- 
dently as to strike even common observers. 



40 CLIMATE. 

2d. The cultivation of the lots adjoining the city, 
many of which were low and retained water, and 
thus gave rise to poisonous exhalations. 

3d. Greater attention to cleanliness in the streets. 

4th. Increase of horticulture. By inducing greater 
consumption of vegetables, and consequently a dimi- 
nution in the use of animal food, the tendency to fe-" 
brile complaints is lessened. 

5th. The institution of a Dispensary, M'hich has 
extended medical relief to thousands, who might have 
suffered from inability to pay a regular physician, or 
have fallen under the hands of pretenders to medi- 
cine. 

6th. Improvements in the healing art*. 

7th. The increase of knowledge among all classes 
of people, w^hence they are better acquainted with 
the means of preserving health. 

Climate. 

A considerable change has taken place in the cli- 
mate of Philadelphia, in common with the state at 
large, during the last forty years. Our winters are 
less uniformly cold, and more variable, and our 
summers less uniformly warm than before the date 
just mentioned. The Delaware for many years past 
has not afforded the diversion of skating for more 
than two weeks at a time, and seldom so long, while 
formerly during four or six weeks, it was the scene 
of pastime and manly exercises. In the year 1704 
snow fell one yard deep, in the winter 1739-40 the 
river was frozen until the 15th of March : but in that 
year the cold was intense all over Europe. 

In the winter of 1779-80 the Delaware continued 
frozen for three months, an ox was roasted on the 



See articles " Disease, Mortality. 



CLIMATE. 41 

ice, and the British army passed over from Ne%v 
York to Paulus Hook on the ice. The ground was 
frozen for four and five feet in depth, and plants and 
animals suffered gi^eatly. In 1790, after opening and 
shutting several times, the river closed on the 18th of 
December, and remained so until the eighteenth of 
Jamiary 1791. After this period, it closed and open- 
ed often, but was not completely navigable until the 
end of the month. The preceding season had been 
uncommonly mild, and it was even reported that 
boys had bathed in the river on the second of Jan- 
uary, 1790. A heavy fall of snow after the middle 
of December, generally preceded the formation of ice, 
and subsequent freezing of the river. But sometimes 
the river is completely frozen over in a single night, 
and passable the next day. Such an occurrence took 
place on 31st December 1764, 7th of January 1791, 
and 6th of December 1797; and in other years. 
But although not uniformly cold in modern times 
as formerly, yet intensely cold weather occasionally 
is experienced. Thus in 1788 on the sixth of Febru- 
ary the thermometer of Farenheit stood at 3" below 0. 
In February 1 791, it stood at 5": of late years the cold- 
est weather has not commenced until the months of 
Januaiy orFebruary, previously to which the seasons 
have been moderate ; in some instances unusually so. 

The winter of 1801-2 was milder than any season 
since 1790, scarcely any snow having fallen before the 
22d. of February: and no obstruction to the naviga- 
tion took place except for a few hours by floating ice 
on the day just mentioned. Shad were in market on 
the 17th of February 1802 ; on the 23d of the same 
month Farenheit's thermometer at 8 A. M. stood 
at 10"; at 3 P. M. 17", the navigation however was 
not impeded. 

Thus also the Autumn of 1805 was so mild, that 
farmers ploughed their land until near Christmas, 
d2 



42 CLIMATE. 

and yet in the following January the weather was 
very cold. In the succeeding season no cold weath- 
er occurred until February, when it was uncommon- 
ly severe all over this continent. In January 1810, 
after a moderate season, the weather became very cold, 
and on the 19th the mercury at 8 A. M. stood at 
11°, and for several days after, was at 8 10 13 14 11^. 
Duting the past season, the weather, though rainy and 
variable, was not very cold except on 17th Decem- 
ber, until February, when it for several days was 
severe in the extreme. And yet shad were in mar- 
ket on the 17th of March, and herrings three days 
before. 

In former times, although the winters were certain- 
ly uniformly colder than of late years, yet mild sea- 
sons occasionally occurred. Dr. Collin has stated 
on the authority of the Swedish records, that in Feb- 
ruary 1714, flowers were seen in the woods: and 
William Penn says that in " 1681 the winter was 
mild, scarcely any ice at all," yet the next season was 
severely cold. 

Our summers no longer oppress us with long con- 
tinued heats. We have it is true occasionally a few very 
warm days, but cool or moderate weather soon succeed 
*' attended by showers of rain accompanied sometimes 
by thunder and lightning, and afterwards by a north- 
west wind, which produces a coolness in the air that 
is highly invigorating and agreeable."* The thermo- 
meter sometimes rises to 89, 90, 91, 92, 93 degrees of 
Farenheit in the months of July and August, and it is 
then common to hear the natives of South Carolina, 
Georgia, and of the West Indies, who may happen 
to be exposed to it, complain of the heat, and even 
assert that it is greater than in their own climate. 
This opinion may arise from two causes, 1. Ourapti- 



• Rush's -works, vol. 1. p. 89, first edition. 



GLIM ATE. 43 

tude to forget the sensations of temperature of 
past times, and 2d. to a prejudice in favour of our 
own country, which prevails equally with the savage 
and civilized man. The thermometer may doubtless 
often rise as high in Philadelphia, as in the States 
south of the Potomac, or in the West Indies ; but 
those who complain, forget to give credit in the ac- 
count, for the cool nights and mornings, which they 
enjoy in our capital, while in the former places, the 
most oppressive part of the day is from the time the 
sun and the sea breeze have declined, until some 
hours after sun rise the next morning. In Philadel- 
phia therefore the system although heated in the day, 
is refreshed by the diminution of temperature after 
sun set : while on the other hand, the sufferer rises 
more exhausted than when he retired, and pants for 
the moment, when the blowing of the sea breeze, shall 
restore his wonted activity and spirits. 

A change has taken place in the weather of au- 
tumn ; formerly October and November were the 
most pleasant months in the year, being dry and 
clear ; but of late years, they have loeen cold, rainy 
and variable : during the past season, this was par- 
ticularly the case. Our springs are often so cold, that 
fires are comfortable, until the 10th of June. 

The quantity of rain that falls in Philadelphia, in 
the course of a year is very irregular. The precise 
quantity cannot be ascertained with accuracy, ow- 
ing to the want of regular observations. What facts 
are in possession shall be given. 

Inches. 
In 1799* there fell, - - 42 3-4 

In 1800* - . - - 39 

I In 1801* - - - - 40 6-8 

' In 1805 ... - 42 

* Dr. Cox's medical museum. All the rain that fell in the 
above years was not noted. 



44 CLIMATE. 

In most parts of the United States, the rain falls 
in greater torrents than in Europe. We know but 
little of those " fine gentle showers" usually are called 
" English rains," which when they do occur, Vol- 
ney says " it is the fashion for people to go out to 
enjoy, without umbrellas, and to get themselves wet 
to the skin !!" 

The number of rainy days is certainly diminish- 
ing in the United States, and hence long droughts 
often occur, although the quantity of rain in the 
course of a year, may not vary much from years in 
which the supply of rain has been more regular. 
The summers of 1804 and 1809, were uncommonly 
rainy. In July 1 804 6-| inches fell ; in August, 4^ ; 
no estimate of June is preserved, but it is well recol- 
lected to have been uncommonly wet, and that vast 
quantities of hay were destroyed in consequence. In 
May 1786, rain fell during fourteen successive 
days. In 1788 and 1809, much grain grew in the 
shock, from the continual rain that fell after it had. 
been cut. More rain fell during the month of No-' 
vembej; last (1810) than commonly falls through- 
out the year. In 1791 during the first five months, 
there were 43 days of rain. In the first eight months 
of 1790, there were 65 days of rain and 114 days of 
fair weather. 

Very dry summers sometimes occur, as in 1782, 
and 1793. The variations in the temperature of the' 
weather are often considerable. In winter, these are 
not so sensibly felt, but in the summer when they 
occur, as they sometimes do, about the middle of 
August, after a very warm day, and the thermome- 
ter falls 15,20, 30 degrees in the course of a night,, 
indisposition will necessarily attack numbers, especi- 
ally those who incautiously sleep with window- 
sashes raised. The temperature of the well water is f. 
about 52° of Farenheit. L 



DISEASES AND MORTALITY. 45 

The want of an annual report of all the deaths in 
the city until within the last five years, precludes the 
possibility of ascertaining accurately'the comparative 
mortality of the present and every former year. It 
may however be asserted that owing to the very 
great improvement in the science of medicine and 
surgery, Avhich have taken place within a few years, 
the chance lor life is much increased ; many diseases, 
now yielding to the powers of the healing art that 
formerly defied it. " In the year 1771,* the city and 
liberties of Philadelphia, contained between 25,000, 
30,000 inhabitants. Between theChristmas of that 
and the following year, there died one thousand 
twohundred and ninety-onef persons. The city and 
districts contain at present about 100,000 inhabi- 
tants:}: and yet between the first of January 1809, and 
the first of January 1810, there died but 2004 per- 
sons. Had the deaths kept pace with the increase of 
our population, their amount would have been more 
than double that number."*^ Thirty years since, the 
disease from drinking cold water in Summer, when 
the body was heated by exercise ; the lock jaw, the 
croup or hives, mania, and numerous other com- 
plaints, that might be mentioned, were seldom or 
never cured ; but at present, they are very rarely 
fatal when early assistance is given. The first named 
disease is peculiar to the United States, and with 
regard to the two last it is asserted on good author- 



*Occasionally, pains were taken to ascertain from the records of 
the different relig-ious societies, and of the public burial g-roands, 
the number of deaths in the city. The Episcopal church with 
commendable attention have from a very early period, published 
a register of births, deaths and christenings in their society, but 
no regular list was published of all the city deaths, 
t It is more than probable that this number was even greater, 
t They now contain 100,764. 
§ Rush's charge to medical graduates, 1810, 



46 DISEASES AND MORTALITY. 

ity, that the success in Philadelphia, is infinitely 
greater than in Europe. Even the consumption, for- 
merly a hopeless disease, has yielded in numerous 
cases in this city, to the early and judicious appli- 
cation of medicine. The free use of wine in low fe- ; 
vers, of mercury, bark, opium and the lancet, all of ; 
which were used with a timid hand, and also warm i 
and cold baths, have contributed to increase the em- I 
pire of medicine over various diseases. 

The character of our diseases is for the most part 
inflammatory. This circumstance is owing to the very : 
variable nature of our climate, to the general use of] 
animal food consumed by all classes of people, and] 
the free use of stimulating liquors of all kinds : for' 
although drunkenness, it may be truly said, is a vice 
by no means common, yet the cheapness of spirituous! 
and malt liquors, enables all classes to take freely of 
them, and hence they occasion complaints to assume 
a form, and certainly a degree of violence from which 
they might otherwise be free. We know nothing of 
those desolating low fevers, which so often pre- 
vail in the cities of Europe, among the labouring 
poor in confined courts and alleys, and but little of that 
long list of nervous diseases, (strictly so called) 
which abridge the lives of the higher class of society, j 
Hence the lancet is oftener required than the stimu- 
lating draught ; and hence too the reason why the 
European physician, whose circle of observation may 
have been confined chiefly to diseases of an opposite, 
character, hears with astonishment of the depleting 
system of the United States, and especially of Phi- 
ladelphia. 

From a variety of causes, a considerable change 
has taken place in the forms of our diseases within 
the last thirty years. 

1. The proportional diminution in the use of ani-| 
mal food, the general abolition of hot family suppers f 



BILLS OF MORTALITY. 47 

ed use of vegetable aliment, have contributed to les- 
sened the number of apoplexies, palsies, dropsies 
and other complaints depending upon repletion, and 
exposure to night air. 

2. The substitution of malt liquors for punch which 
ivas formerly the fashionable beverage at noon, at 
dinner, and at supper ; and the use of flannels, or 
muslin next the body, have expelled the dry gripes, 
formerly a fatal disease in Philadelphia. 

3. The universal use of umbrellas and the increased 
use of high crowned hats, have lessened the diseases 
arising iVom the operation of the sun. 

4. Vaccination is rapidly dispelling the loathsome 
small pox from the city. 

5. The diminution of deaths from consumption has 
^ready been mentioned. 

6. The increased cleanliness of the city. 

Bills of ^Tortalitij. 

Since the year 1806, the number of deaths, and 
the names of the diseases are ascertained with an accu- 
racy highly desirable in every town, and especially 
in a populous city. 

By a law passed in the above year, the sextons of all 
churches or places of worship, are obliged, under a 
penalty, to obtain from the attending ph}sician of 
a deceased person, or from some of the family, a cer- 
tificate of the age and disorder of which he or she 
may have died, and the days of their death: and in 
ilike manner, a certificate is to be obtained from the 
city alms house, of the diseases of all who die therein, 
which certificates are to be delivered to the Board of 
Health, and by their order a weekly statement is 
made up and published in the newspapers, of the dis- 
eases and the ages ol the deceased. At the end of th e 
year, a general statement is published by the Board, 
I From these the follpwing result is composed. 



43 



BILL OF MORTALITY. 





1807 


1808 


1809 


1810 


Under 2 years, . . . 


614 


867 


758 


760 


From 2 to 5 






121 


167 


92 


115 


5 10 






65 


98 


52 


59 


10 20 






79 


95 


74 


IZ 


20 30 






144 


212 


203 


240 


30 40 






236 


219 


226 


264 


40 50 






172 


186 


159 


163 


50 60 






139 


128 


95 


142 


60 70 






88 


98 


71 


96 


70 80 






79 


61 


67 


68 


80 90 






60 


30 


44 


45 


90 100 






11 


7 


14 


9 


100 110 






4 


2 


1 


2 


Unknown, 






233 


101 


141 




Total, 


2045 


2271 


2004 


2036 


Proportion of Deaths in 


each month. 




January 


150 


136 


130 


149 


February « . 








118 


123 


118 


152 


March : . 








154 


154 


141 


127 : 


April 








157 


169 


136 


152 


May . . 








133 


179 


150 


164 


June . . 








159 


227 


184 


147 


July . . . 








237 


374 


184 


192 


August 








268 


297 


280 


269 


September . 








237 


185 


167 


173 


October 








162 


154 


176 


193 


November 








155 


152 


189 


152 


December . . 






• 


115 


111 


139 


166 



The above fact^ speak for themselves, and full}- 
disprove the commonly received opinion of the sick' 
uess of Philadelphia. 



DEATHS. 



49 



it cannot be said that the years 180;r-8-9 or 10 
were unusually healthy, because it appears from the 
following table, that for a period of twelve years, the 
number of deaths in the city, except during the vis- 
itation of the fever was even smaller. The high 
numbers indicate the years of pestilence. 

DEATHS IN THE CITY AXD SUBURBS. 





Males. iFemales. 1 Total. 
1 1 


September 1 


1, 1787 to Sept. 


1, 1788 


560 


438 


998 




1788 to 




1789 


514 


482 


996 




1789 to 




1790 


549 


486 


1035 


August 1, 


1790 to Aug. 


1, 1791 


645 


664 


1309 




1791 to 




1792 


644 


601 


1245 


3) 


1792 to 


51 


1793 


778 


719 


1497 


)1 


1793 to 


51 


1794 


2933 


2059 


4292 




1794 to 




1795 


897 


862 


1759 




1795 to 




179-') 


1188 


1025 


2283 


?3 


1796 to 


51 


1797 


857 


809 


1666 




1797 to 


55 


1798 


1245 


nil 


2356 


1' 


1798 to 




1799 


2515 


1948 4463*1 



The above table also proves fully, that the num- 
ber of deaths in proportion to the population of the 
city is less than in other cities oi countries that boast 
of their healthiness, and that the climate, contrary 
to the opinion of European travellers is highly 
conducive to longevity. Had there been any regular 
accovmt taken of the ages of those who died before 
1806, the list of old persons might have been greatly 
swelled ; and the want of such a regulation, vv^ll pre- 



" The preceding- statement was extracted from the table pub- 
lislied in " Poulson's Almanac ;" the Information for which wa«; 
annually collected bv the editor of that publication. 
E 



50 COMPARATIVE HEALTH OF PHILADELPHIA. 

vent our city from appearing in as favourable alight 
as it deserves: but enough has been said to shew the 
incorrectness of the assertion so oiten made, with 
respect to its general unhealthiness.* 

A few remarks may be offered upon the foregoing 
statement. The population oi Philadelphia, includmg 
the built parts of the Northern Liberties, Southwark, 
Passyunk and Moyamensing, amount to 100,764 
souls, but to avoid fractions, say 100,000. 

The number of deaths in 1810, was 2036, giving : 
the proportion of one to fifty, while from the tables 
of Dr. Halley, formed vipon facts derived from vari- i 
ous cities in Europe which were least liable to fluctua- 
tions, as to sudden increase or decrease, it appears 
that the proportion of deaths in them is as 1 to 33, 
The Liverpool bill of mortality lor 1806, states the 
number Oi deaths at 2395, and computing a population 
of 80,000, the above propoi'tions are preserved, and 
are said to be less than obtains in any other town of 
equal size in the kingdom. | Now if Liverpool, being 
the most healthy town in a country which boasts of 
its healthiness, is exceeded by Philadelphia in that 
point, in the proportion ol more than 50 to 33, the 
tact certainly ought to satisfy us with our own climate, 
and to silence the aspersions of Europeans with re- 
gard to it. 

Compared with other cities in the United States, 
the healthiness of Philadelphia will be found flatter- 
ing. 



*Thc just claim to healthiness by Philadelphia, will more ful- 
ly appear from a paper preparing by the author on the subject of 
American longevity. 

f Monthly Magazine, London, July, 1807. 



COMPARATIVE HEALTH OF PHILADELPHIA. ^l 

The number of deaths from 

December, 1806, to August, Adults Cliildrcn Total. 

1807, in New- York amounted to 862 688 1550 

In Philadelphia, in same time 796 591 1387 

Greater number of deaths') „„ p,^ ^^,, 
. ^j .r 1 \- 66 97 16o 

m New \ ork, J 

Deaths in New Yoi'k by consumption, 

during the above time, . _ - - 304 

Deaths in Philadelphia by the same 

disease, and in the same time , - - 207 

More deaths in New York, by con- 
sumption, . _ - ., . _ 97 

1550 deaths in New York, in So weeks 

average per day, ----- 6y 

1387 deaths in Philadelphia, in the 

same time, average per day, - * " ■^t 

If the population of Philadelphia, as being great- 
er than that of New York, be taken into consideration, 
the difference in favour of Philadelphia will be con- 
siderably increased. 

No document having come to hand of the deaths 
in Boston or Baltimore, a comparison could not be 
made with respect to those cities. 

The cause of the greater number of deaths by 
consumption in Nev/ York, and in the New Eng- 
land States generally, admits of an easy explanation 
upon the following principles. 

1. Hereditary confirmation. 2d, Greater keenness 
in the air from the vicinity to the sea ; hence weak 
lungs are irritated in such air, while a dry air, free 
from saline impregnation, will have no effect. Some 
persons have spit blood in New York, who were en- 
tirely free from any pulmonic affection in Philadel- 
phia, 3d, Prejudices against bleeding, by which the 



^2 COMMERCE. 

inflammation almost so universally attendant apon the 
disease in the beginning, is permitted to go on, until 
it becomes general, and tubercles are formed in the 
lungs. This cause prevails chiefly in New York. 
4th, Inattention to accommodating the dress to the 
thange OJ the weather, prevails equally in New York 
and Philadelphia, but the remote causes not existing to 
such a degree in the latter as in the former place, this 
cause does not operate so powerfully in Philadelphia. 

Cominerce. 

Arrivals — The number of square rigged vessels 
that entered the port in 1771, was 361 
Sloops and Schooners, - - 391 

752 

In 1 786, the total number was - - 910 

1787, „ „ . - - 870 

1788, „ „ - . _ 854. 

1789, „ „ - . . 1261 
1793, „ „ - _ - 1050 
1797, „ „ - . . 1420 
1804, Arrivals — Foreign 579 



Coasters 1220 

Clearances — Foreign 618 
Coasters 1146 



:1805, Arrivals— Foreign 547 
Coasters 1169 

CiKARANCES — Foreign 617 
Coasters 1231 



1799^ 



1764 



3563 



1716 



1848 



o:> 



64 



COMMENCE. 53 

1806, Arrivals — Foreign 690 

Coasters 1231 

1921 

CLEARANCES' — Foreign 730 

Coasters 1278 

2309 

4230 

1807, Arrivals — Foreign 699 

Coasters 1270 

1969 

Clearances — Foreign 712 

Coasters 1231 

1943 

3912 

1809, Arrivals — Foreign 278 

Coasters 1413 

1691 

Clearances — (Embargo) 

1810, Arrivals — Foreign 514 

Coasters 684 

1198 

Clearances — Foreign 497 

Coasters 614 

nil 

230& 

Exports. 

In the year 1790, the total amount of the exports of 
Philadelphia, was - - - ^7,953,41 8 

In 1796, it was - - - - 17,523,866 

1809, the amount of domestic produce 
exported was - S4,238,358 
Foreign, - - 4,810,883 

9,049,241 

1810, Domestic, - - 4,751,634 
Foreign, - - 6,241,764 

10,993,39& 

E 2 



^ COMMERCE. 

Tonnage. 

In 1771, the total amount of Tonnage 

was - ----- 44,654 

In 1786 — American, 31,546 

Foreign 28,392 



59,938 

In 1800, Total ... - 103,663 

1810 ----- 121,443 

It was stated to Congress in February last, by a 
master ship-builder, of Philadelphia, that there were 
then 9,145 tons of shipping on the stocks. 

The commerce of Philadelphia has kept pace with 
the progress of the general prosperity of the State ; 
but in common with the whole union, has suffered 
a considerable diminution, by reason of the vexa- 
tions from European nations, who for some years 
past, have acted as if power gave right, and by the 
restrictive measures forced upon our government. Our 
merchants are equal to any in the Union, for indus- 
try and enterprize ; but during the uncertainty of 
trade that has prevailed for some time past, they 
have observed a prudent caution in their adventures, 
which has had the effect of lowering the amount of 
tonnage, when compared with other cities in the 
United States : but the good effects of such con- 
duct has been most striking during the past year, 
when owing to the uncertainty of the renewal of the 
charter of the United States Bank, that great wheel 
of commercial credit, a very great diminution of 
bank accommodation necessarily took place : hence, 
■while in other cities of the Union, the greatest dis- 
tress has been produced, and failures have been nu- 
xnerous, and to ^n immense amount, so few have ta- 
ken place in Philadelphia, as to produce no diminu- 
tion of that chain of mutual confidence, by which 



COMMERCE. 55 

commerce is upheld, and cannot fail to confirm the 
opinion generally entertained oi the stability of the 
mercantile community oi" Philadelphia. 

Prices Current^ of Foreign and Domestic Articles, at 
various dates. 



Thursday, April 7, 1720. 


1798 


1811 




April. 


April. 


Flour, 8s 6d to 9s per cwt. 


32 to 34s 


^6 50 


White bread, 18s do. 


75s 


9 


Middling bread, 14s per do. 


45s 


7 


Brown bread, lis do. 


30s 


5 50 


Salt, 3s 2d per bushel 


7s 6d 


55 


Tobacco, 14s per cwt. 


75s 


4 to 10 


Muscovado Sugar, 30s to 






45s 6d per cwt. 


120s 


12 50 


Pork, 4os per barrel 


120 to 142 6 


1 7 to 22 


Beef, 30s per do. 


90 to 112s 6 


9 to 16 


Rum, 3s to 3s 6d per gallon 


8s9tolOs7d 


1 


Molasses, 17 to I8d per gal. 


4s 6d 


45 


Wheat,3s to 3s 3d per bush. 


9s 


2 25 


Indian corn, Is 8d to Is lOd 






per do. 


3s 9d 


75 


Bohea Tea, 50s. per lb. 


4s Id 


30 to 35 cts. 


Madeira Wine, 16 to 20l 




eolstg.p.pi. 


per pipe 


401 per pipe 


first cost 


Pipe staves, 3l per thousand 


$55 


$77 


Hogshead staves, 45s do. 


35 


44 


Barrel staves, 22s 6d do. 


18 


32 


Pitch, 16 to 17s per barrel 


26s 3d 


6 



No article in the above list exhibits so great a dif- 
ference in price, as Bohea Tea. At the date first men- 
tioned, its use was confined to a few persons, the 
greater part of whom had been educated in Europe, 
and could not abandon the pleasant meal which the 



55 INSPECTION OF BEEF AND PORK. 

article afforded them. It was deemed by many a sin- 
ful luxury, and of course, proscribed by the bigoted. 
All of it came by way of England, and was saddled 
with heavy duties. Bohea Tea was moreover, the 
only kind of tea then used. 

Inspection of Beef and Pork. 

The importance of securing a character in foreign 
markets to our staple commodities, and ol preventing 
impositions by the dishonest, upon our OAvn citizens, 
early attracted the attention of the legislature, under 
the colonial government. 

In the year 1727, a law was enacted to regulate 
the exportation of beef and pork, and an inspector 
appointed with extensive authority, to search ships 
and stores for either article, intended to be exported ; 
heavy penalties v/ere also inflicted for opposition, or 
molestation of any sort to him, while in the execu- 
tion of his duty ; or for shipping any cask without the 
provincial brand or mark. In case of dispute, ai-bi- 
trators were to be appointed by a magistrate, who' 
was to give judgment agreeably to their report. 

By a law passed in 1789, all beef or poi'k, the pro- 
duce of the State, and intended to be exported, are 
to be packed in barrels made of sound and seasoned 
white oak, with fourteen hoops thereon, fastened at 
each end by iron nails, and at each bilge^ by wooden 
pegs or pins. 

Every beef or pork tierce, must be of the guage of 
42 gallons, wine measure, and contain 300 lb. sound 
meat, well packed and secured with salt and pickle, 
and not have more than three legs or shins ; and if 
pork, not more than three heads : every barrel of 
beef to be of the guage of 28 gallons, wine measure, 
and to contain no more than two shins : every barrel-, 
of pork, of the guage ol 29 gallons, wine measure,, 
and to hold 200 lbs. cured meat, and no more than 



INSPECTION OF FLOUR. 57 

two heads : every half barrel of beef and pork to be 
of the gaageofl5 gallons, and to contain 100 lbs. of 
cured meat ; and if of beef, not more than one shin, 
and if of pork, not more than one head. Casks of eve- 
ry sort to be branded with the word " Philadelphia," 
and name of the cooper, or the person putting up the 
same. Every tierce, barrel, or half barrel, containing 
salted beel'or pork, intended for sale, of the quantity 
and quality before mentioned, and packed and secured 
in the manner aforesaid, shall be passed by the in- 
spector : but if these regulations be not complied 
with, he is to scratch out ihe cooper's or packer's 
brand ; and if the same cannot be rendered mer- 
chantable, a ><! is to be branded on the head of the 
barrel. 

Persons selling or delivering beef or pork not in- 
spected, or rei using to admit the inspector to erase 
the cooper's or packer's brand, forfeits ten shillings; 
for erasing the cross that may have been stamped, 
the penalty is ten pounds. Six pence per barrel is paid 
for inspection, and one shilling and six pence for 
each tierce, and one shilling for each barrel, or half 
barrel repacked, besides cooperage. Persons may 
employ their own cooper. 

Inspection of Flour. 

By a law passed in 1781, flour casks are to be 
made of seasoned materials ; having ten hoops, nailed 
with lour nails in each chine hoop, and three nails in 
each upper bilge hoop : the staves to be twenty seven 
inches long, but may be of different diameters at the 
head : viz. casks No. 1, eighteen inches at the head : 
iNo. 2, sixteen inches and a half: No. 3, fi/teen inch- 
es and a half. Twenty cents penalty on eveiy barrel 
is annexed to a breach oi this regulation. Millers 
jare to have brands to mark every cask therev/ith, be- 



58 INSPECTION OF FLOUR. 

fore removal from the place where the same was bolt- 
ed or packed : and these brands are to be registered 
with the clerk oi the Quarter Sessions of the County. . 
No flour is to be exported before being inspected. . 
Inspectors have authority to enter onboard any ves- 
sel, or into any store, to search for flour intended to 
be exported, and are protected from molestation by 
a heavy penalty on the offender. Counterfeitei's of the 
brand are to pay five pounds for every cask so brand- 
ed. No inspector is to deal in flour, under a penalty 
of fifty pounds, and forfeit of oflice. 

Flour mixed with Indian corn meal, is to be con- 
demned, and a fine of three dollars for each cask 
incurred : one iourth to the use of the inspector, and 
the other three-iourths to the use of the poor of the 
county in which the owner of the flour may reside. ^ 

Corn, intended to be ground into meal, must b©i 
first kiln dried, and when ground, the words " kiln 
dried," must be branded on the cask, before it leaves 
the mill. Casks containing rye flour must also be 
branded with the words " rye flour," and he may add 
" fine," ii he thinks its quality will insure approba- 
tion from the inspector. Com and rye meal may be 
packed in large casks, but secured by sixteen hoops, 
with four nails in each chine hoop, and three wood- 
en pegs at the upper edge of each bilge hoop : th€ 
staves to be forty-one inches, and the diameter o 
the head twenty-seven inches ; the diameter at th( 
bung, thirty-one inches, and to contain eight hundred 
pounds neat weight, and having the tare oi the casl 
marked on it. Both rye and corn flour are subject tc 
the same inspection, and the same penalt.es as wheat 
en flour. Three cents are allowed for each cask o 
corn or rye meal inspected. 

Bread casks are to be weighed, and the tare mark' 
ed thereon ; a false tare subjects the oftcnder to thi 
penalty ot five shdiings. Bakers ot bread ior export 



INSPECTION OF FLOUR. 59 

ation, must deliver Avith the bread, an invoice, with 
his name branded on the cask : if found light, they 
are forfeited. Flour waggons, carts or boats, with 
flour on board, must have sufficient covering : flour 
brought to a landing, must be stored or sheltered 
from the weather. Flour attempted to be shipped 
before inspection, pays five shillings a barrel. In 
case oi disputes between owner and inspector, a ma- 
gistrate appoints three impartial persons, one named 
by the owner, one by the inspector, and a third by 
himself, who examine the flour, and report the 
state thereof ; if damaged, the cause of such dam- 
age : if the flour be not deepied merchantable by 
the magistrate, the owner must pay to the inspector 
one shilling per cask; if deemed merchantable, the in- 
spector pays all costs. In case flour has been injured 
by shallop-men, carters, or miller, the owner is enti- 
tled to damages to the extent of the injury. The 
penalty is five pounds for counterfeiting flour brands, 
or impresKsingthe same on flour casks ; one hundred 
pounds for branding flour " superfine," after it has 
been condemned ; and if attempted to be shipped, 
the flour is forfeited: one half goes to the State, the 
other half to the prosecutor. 

The manner of performing the inspection is as fol- 
flows. The oflicer runs a scoop diagonally from one 
Miead of a barrel to the other, and is thus enabled to 
examine every part of its contents, and to determine 
whether it is of uniform quality, as to fineness or 
' mess, or whether it is musty or sour, and he ac- 
ngly either confirms the stamp of quality alrea- 
:.._, jaade by the miller, or erases it by means of a 
fscraper : the mark of approbation, besides leaving the 
original brand of quality undefaced, is a wooden 
plug, stamped S. P. on the head, and inserted in the 
hole made by the scoop. 



60 OF SHAD AND HERRING. 

Such is the confidence placed in the abilities and 
impartiality of the inspectors, that appeals from their 
decisions are seldom made, and in the few instances 
in which disputes have occurred, the decision of the 
officer has been confirmed. Besides one cent per 
barrel paid by the buyer, the inspector receives the 
contents of the scoop as a perquisite. 

In the year 1809, in consequence of the increase 
of the trade, and extension of the city, a law was 
passed, requiring the appointment of two inspectors, 
one to reside nqrth, and the other south of High- 
street, who are to attend alternately ior one month 
in each d-strict, to the inspection of flour : and when 
the emoluments exceed 1500 dollars a year to each 
inspector, one halt oi" the surplus is to be paid into the: 
State treasury. Every barrel of wheat and rye floilr| 
must contain 196 lbs. 

Shad and Herring, , 

Casks for packing shad and herring for exporta- 
tion, may be made of any kind of timber, but must 
be salt and pickle tight, and hooped with fourteen 
good hoops, secured at each bilge with three nails 
or pins, and at each head or chine hoop, with at least 
three nails. The length of the staves to be 27-^ inches. 
The head, \7\ inches. The cask to contain 28 gal- 
lons, wine measure. The half barrel, 1-i gallons; anc 
■both to be branded with the initial letter of the 
christian name, and the sirnarae at full length, ofthf 
pucker or seller, under a penalty of 67 cents lor eacl 
barrel. On payment of the fine, the inspector majf 
brand them with his name, and be entitled to si}j 
cents from the persons selling the same. Before , J 
sale, or exportation, the barrels must be examine" 
by the inspector, who is authorized to erase the brai; 



INSPECTION OF BUTTER. 61 

of the packer, in case the barrels are not of the di- 
mensions, and made in the way before mentioned, 
and not packed and secured as here directed. If 
they cannot be rendered merchantable, he may erase 
the brand of the curer, and impress on the head 
a cross, thus, ^ . 

Persons selling shad or herrings, for exportation, 
or transportation, before they have been examined 
and branded ; or refusing permission to the inspec- 
tor to erase a brand, when necessary, shall forfeit 
one dollar and thirty three cents for every barrel. 
The penalty for defacing the marks of condemnation 
of the inspector, is twenty dollars. Twenty cents are 
allowed to the inspector for examining every barrel, 
and thirty-three cents for every barrel or half barrel 
of shad or herring he inay repack : for filling up and 
heading the same, ten cents. Unexported fish are to 
be examined every six months, and three cents fire 
allowed for every barrel examined and headed. 

Penalties are to be collected by the inspector for 
the time being ; one half to be paid to the guardians 
of the poor, the other half to be retained by the in- 
spector : to be recovered as other debts. Appeals 
from the decision of the inspector are provided for 
as in the case of flour. Deputies may be appointed 
by the inspector, in Philadelphia county, Bucks, and 
Chester. 

Butter. 

Every keg of butter offered for sale and exporta- 
tion, shall contain fifty pounds of butter, sufficiently 
salted for exportation, and shall be packed in kegs 
of the following dimensions : viz. 

The staves to be of the length of sixteen and one 
half inches, the diameter of the head eleven inches, 
and the diameter of the bulge thirteen inches, and 

F 



62 INSPECTION OF FLAX SEED. 

made of sound and well seasoned white-oak timber, 
with seventeen hoops on each keg, and fastened with 
three iron nails in each head hoop: each keg shall he 
weighed and tared, and the tare marked on one of 
the heads with a marking iron in legible characters. 

Every keg containing butter shall be inspected be- 
fore it be laden on board of any vessel for exporta- 
tion, by boreing a hole through the head, and pierc- 
ing the butter through with a proper instrument, in 
order to ascertain the quality ; and if the inspector 
find the butter of first quality, he shall brand the 
keg with the letters S P, first quality ; and if found 
inferior to the first, he shall brand it S P, second 
quality ; and if found not merchantable, then the 
said inspector shall impress and brand a distinct 
mark of a cross, thus, ^ : (each stroke of the said 
cross shall be at least two inches long,) on one head 
of every such keg, containing butter as aforesaid. 

Every person who shall load on board of a vessel, 
any butter not inspected, or offer for sale, or export 
in kegs different from those described, or containing 
less than fifty pounds, shall forfeit one dollar for each 
keg. Four cents are paid as inspection fees, for '^ach 
"keg, by the purchaser, and customary allowance 
for cooperage, unless he employ his own cooper. 

Flax Seed. 

No flax seed is permitted to be exported before 
being cleaned, and must be packed in casks, made as 
straight as possible ; the staves of which must be of 
sound oak, and having, besides a lining hoop on the 
outside round the chines ; twelve other good hoops, 
secured by three iron nails in each of the chine 
hoops, and three in each quarter hoop. The casks 
are to be of two sizes : the larger size to be two feet 
nine inches long ; and in diameter, at each head, 
twenty-four inches, and to contain seven bushels of 



SIJINGLES. 65 

flax seed. The smaller size, to contain three bushels 
and a half: the casks to be branded with the name of 
the person who cleaned the seed. 

Violators of the foregoing regulations, forfeit 
twenty shillings for each cask, not inspected, or not 
made, branded, or filled as directed ; and five shil- 
lings for every cask shipped without being branded. 

Shingles. 

Shingles, intended for exportation, must be of the 
following dimensions. Shingles of the first kind, 
must be two feet nine inches, at least, long; five and 
a half inclies wide, and of such a thickness, that v/hen 
dressed, they may remain at least half an inch thick 
at every place between the but end, and a distance of 
ten inches from the same. 

Shingles of the second kind must be twenty-four 
inches at least, and not more than twenty-six inches 
in length ; five inches at least, in width, and of such 
a thickness, that w^hen dressed, they may remain at 
least half an inch thick at every part between the but 
end, and a distance of seven inches therefrom. 

Shingles of the third kind, must be fifteen inches 
long, nor less than three and a half inches wide, and of 
a thickness sufficient to remain, when dressed, three 
eights of an inch thick at every place between the 
end, and a distance of six inches from the same. 

By a supplement passed in 1790, shingles of the 
third sort are required to be packed in a close and 
compact manner, when sold in bundles ; each of 
which shall contain one hundred and twenty-five shin- 
gles, and no more : and each row in every bundle* 
must only contain three shingles. 

Lumber » 

Staves, heading, boards, plank, or timber, intended 
for exportation, must be inspected by the proper offi- 



64 LUMBER. 

cer, or his deputies ; who, if he find them sound, 
and fit for exportation, shall count and cull the same, 
in a just and impartial manner. 

Every hewed or shaved pipe, shall be four feet 
eight inches long ; three inches and a half broad in 
the narrowest part, clear of sap ; five eighths of an 
inch thick in the thinnest place ; nor more than one 
inch thick in any part, regularly split with the grain 
of the wood ; and shall not have more than seven 
Tvorm holes, and be otherwise fit for a good pipe 
stave. 

Every hewed or shaved barrel stave shall be two 
feet six inches long, three inches and a half broad, in 
the narrowest part ; half an inch thick in the thin- 
nest part, regularly split : not more than five worm 
holes. 

Every hogshead stave, shall be three feet six inch- 
es long J three inches and a half broad, clear of sap ; 
\u tae narrowest place, five eighths of an inch thick 
in the thinnest part ; not more than one inch thick in 
any part, regularly split, and not more than six worm 
holes. 

Every piece of hogshead heading, shall be two 
feet six inches long ; the middle pieces, six inches 
broad, in the narrowest place, clear of sap ; and the 
cantle pieces of the same breadth, in the widest part, 
clear of sap ; both sorts, three quarters of an inch 
thick, with not more than seven worm holes in each 
piece. 

All boards, plank and timber, shall be good and 
sound, and of the thickness and quality the same as 
declared to be by the seller. 

Rough staves and heading may be sold, if of the 
proper length and breadth, and qualities before-men- 
tioned. 

Inspectors are authorized to search vessels for 
staves, &c. shipped for exportation : opposition in- 



LUMBER. 63 

curs a penalty of fifty pounds : if shipped without in- 
spection, the fine is twenty shillings for every thou- 
sand staves or heading : ten shillings for every thou- 
sand feet of boards, plank or timber, so shipped. 

An account of all lumber, &c. measured and in- 
spected, is to be kept, and of the names of the buyers 
and sellers. The officer must not buy or sell staves, 
&c. of which he is inspector, under a penalty of fifty 
pounds. One half of the penalties and forfeitures in- 
curred by this act, go to the Pennsylvania Hospital : 
the other half, to the informer. Act, 1759. 

All staves, &c. before they are delivered for sale, 
shall be inspected, under a penalty of forfeiting the 
same : one half to the Commonwealth; the other half, 
to the informer. 

Mixing good staves or heading, with cullings, or 
unmerchantable, or uninspected staves or headings, 
incurs a forfeit of the whole so mixed. 

Leogan staves, used for sugar hogsheads, may be 
exported, if four feet six inches long, three and a half 
inches broad, including sap, if it be sound ; and half 
an inch thick, but subject to inspection. Act. 1790. 

By an act of March 30, 1803, no staves shall be 
deemed merchantable, which are not three inches 
wide. 

Fees are as follow. For inspecting and examin- 
ing boards and plank, according to superficial mea- 
sure, for every thousand feet, thirty-three cents. 
Other timber, reduced to cubical feet, for every ton, 
(consisting of cubical feet,) one half to be paid by 
the buyer, and the other by the seller, thirteen cents: 
inspecting and culling the first and second sorts of 
shingles, per thousancl, twenty cents : the third kind, 
thirteen cents. — — Act, 1790. 

By an act of March 20, 1810, the fee for inspect- 
ing staves and heading, was fixed at 25 cents for eve- 
ry customary thousand. 

F2 



66 BLACK OAK BARK. 

For several years past, great quantities of bark of 
a particular variety of black oak, for dying, have 
been exported in powder, to Europe. 

No ground black oak bark may be shipped, ex- 
cept such, as in the opinion of the inspector, shall 
have been shaved, clean from the ross, or outside 
bark ; ground sufficiently fine, and be free from da- 
mage by wet, mould, or otherwise ; well packed in 
good and sufficient casks ; having at least twelve 
hoops thereon, together with lining hoops on each 
end, well secured. 

Bark shall be put up and packed in casks, marked 
In plain and legible characters, " first and second 
quality," as its quality and manufacture may merit, 
together with the word " Philadelphia," and the 
name of the inspector : no casks shall be so marked, 
except the same shall be found free from all mix- 
ture with oak bark, tan, or extraneous matter ; from 
damage by wet, mould, or otherwise. Bark so mix- 
ed, or damaged, shall be branded with the letter C. 
Persons defacing such mark, shall forfeit twenty dol- 
lars : one half to the prosecutor, the other half to the 
poor. Manufacturers of oak bark, must brand the 
cask on the head, with their name, at full length, un- 
der the penalty of one dollar for each cask omitted 
to be so marked: the inspector shall be entitled to 
receive for every ton weight of bark he shall in- 
spect, three dollars : one half to be paid by the sell- 
er, and one half by the buyer, besides cooperage ; 
also six cents per cask, per week, for storage, com- 
puting from the time of inspection. The inspector is 
to weigh bark sent to him, and to furnish the owner 
with an invoice specifying the gross weight, and the 
tare of each cask : for every cask not exceeding ten 
hundred weight, there shall be allowed eight pounds 
for draft. 



MEASURERS OF GIlAIN,Stc. 67 

The inspector is empowered to search for bark on 
board of vessels : for obstructing him, the fine is 
one hundred dollars, with a forfeit of the bark : 
twenty dollars is the fine for each cask shipped with- 
out inspection : one half to the use of the officer or 
person prosecuting, the other half to the poor. Con- 
demned bark may be sold for home consumption, and 
unsound bark may be exported, without inspection : 
disputes to be settled by arbitration, as in the case of 
the other articles of domestic produce. 

Measurers of Grain, ^c. and Weigh Masters. 

For the purpose of securing justice to both buyer 
and seller, in the continual traffic that takes place be- 
tween citizens, a swornmeasurer of grain of all sorts, 
and salt, and coal, is appointed. All ha)^ likewise, 
brought to the city, is weighed at the public scales: 
and by the certificates of the officers, all the articles 
mentioned, are bought and sold. 

Chamber of Commerce. 

An association of persons, concerned in trade, was 
formed in the year 1801, " for the purposes of aid- 
ing the trade of the city of Philadelphia, by carry- 
ing into effect, such rules and regulations as may 
from time to time, be established, with respect to 
commerce; and the adjustment ot mercantile differ- 
ences, between each other," by the name of " The 
Chamber of Commerce." 

Agreeably to the rules of the association publish- 
ed, they are to meet once a month : thirteen mem- 
bers to constitute a quorum. The officers are, a pre- 
isident, two vice presidents, a treasurer, and a secre- 
tary ; chosen annually, on the first Monday in Janu- 
jary. The secretary is to have a salary, to be fi^ed by 



68 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. 

the president and vice presidents. On the day of 
their election, or as soon after as possible, the pre- 
sident and vice president, form sixty of the mem- 
bers of the society, into twelve classes, for the pur- 
pose of serving as monthly committees, for the en- 
suing year : each class to consist of five members ; 
three of whom shall be competent to the transaction! 
of business. Members neglecting to attend the meet- 
ings of the committees, pay fifty cents for every ne- 
glect. 

The duty of the monthly committee is, to adjust 
and determine all mercantile disputes which may be 
laid before them ; and to report their proceedings to 
the next general meeting. All awards are to be re- 
corded, with the reasons of the award. 

The members shall in no case, refuse to submit 
any matter of account in dispute, or any mercantile, 
difference between them, to the final arbitration or 
adjustment of those members who may be chosen 
for that purpose : but it shall be at the option ot the 
parties to submit such difference to the committee of 
the month, or each to choose a member of the soci- 
ety, who, together with the chairman of the month, 
shall determine the matter in dispute. Members re- 
fusing to conform to the rules of the society, forfeit: 
membership. The subscription is, five dollars or 
entrance, and eight dollars yearly. Members must be 
citizens of the United States, and residents in Phi- 
ladelphia ; and must be nominated one month before 
they can be chosen. 

Survey of damaged ships and cargoes. 

The following mode of procedure is adopted, t(| 
determine the quantum of damage sustained on boarc 
vessels, by stress of weather. 



SlillVEY OF DAMAGED SHIPS AND CARGOES. 69 

A writ issues upon application by the master, from 
the district court, directed to three persons, two of 
whom are masters of ships, and one a merchant, for 
a survey on ship and cargo " (taking to their assist- 
ance, any ship carpenter, or other tradesman, if they 
shall think it necessary,) and to estimate the amount 
of damage, wastage, or loss, if any, which the said 
cargo, or any part thereof, may have sustained, and 
the occasion thereof." The hatches are accordingly 
examined, the discharge of the cargo takes place, 
and the injured packages marked. The consignee 
takes them home, when a more minute examination 
takes place, and the quantum of damage of each 
package being ascertained, an account of it is taken 
agreeably to original invoice, and signed by the con- 
signee. The report thereon is made by the surveyors 
on oath or affirmation, and remains on record. A sale 
at auction is then ordered, of the damaged part, for 
accoimt of the concerned : the proceeds whereof, are 
credited in account, and the first cost and charges 
being deducted, the loss is ascertained. 

Where the damage is deemed to arise from de- 
ficient dunnage, or from placing a perishable arti- 
cle in contact with dry goods, the vessel and owner 
are liable. In such cases, the consignee or owner, 
may have an offer oPthe damaged part, at first cost 
and charges, but if not accepted, recourse is had, as 
before, to sah by auction. 

When a ship is dismasted, or otherwise injured, 
by stress of weather, a special examination takes 
Dlace of the protest and log book, and of the master 
md mariners on board, touching the disaster ; and 
orders are issued for repairs. When these ai-e com- 
pleted, the bills are brought to the surveyors, who 
separate the charges incident to the disaster, from 
;;hose resulting from the decay of the ship ; and a 
i report as in the former case is lodged in the office. 



70 PORT WARDENS. 

When a ship puts back in distress, and it becomes 
necessary to discharge the cargo, a writ is obtained 
for a survey, as in other cases ; and after examination 
by the surveyors, their certificate issues to the cus- 
tom-house, for a permit to discharge the cargo, if 
necessarj'. An inquiry respecting the cause of the 
disaster, the order for repairs, the examination of the 
bills for the same, and report take place as before. 

The ability and impartiality, with which the duties 
of the surve3'ors of Philadelphia have been discharg- 
ed, has caused a general confidence to be reposed in 
their reports, by underwriters at home and abroad. 

Wardens of the Port, 

A board of Wardens was established by law, at an 
early date, and in 1803, a new law was passed on the 
subject: by this, the governor is authorized to appoint { 
annually, one master Warden and six assistants, with i 
power to use a seal, and to appoint a clerk, whose I 
minutes of the transactions of the board are open to 
the public. ' 

The master Warden is bound to attend every day, 
from ten to one o'clock, at the office ; and once a 
month the full board are to meet, to grant licences to 
pilots, to make rules for their government ; to decide 
all differences between masters, owners, and con- 
signees of vessels, or pilots : to direct the mooring 
of ships, and the order in which they shall lie, load, 
or unload at the wharves ; and to make and ordain 
penalties for the breach of their rules and orders. 
An appeal from their decision to the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas is allowed, provided it be made within six 
days. The Wardens are exempted from serving on 
juries. The assistants receive no pay : that of the 
Master Warden is $2 50, daily. The salary of the 
clerk is $500 annually. The Wardens must take ar 



PILOTS. Yl 

oath of office. The accounts of the office are to be 
settled quarterly, by the Register General ; and if it 
shall appear that the monies paid into the office are 
insufficient to defray the expenses of it, the Governor 
IS authorized to draw on the State Treasurer for the 
amount of such deficiency : but it must not exceed 

No person is permitted to make any obstruction to 
^ rT'^ Passage along the wharves, under a pen- 
alty of SlOO: if made, the Wardens are authorized 
to remove the same. Persons desirous of extending 
a wharl mto the river, must make application, under 
a heavy penalty, to the Board, who are to determine 
vvhether the wharf will not encroach upon or injure 
Wie channel, and approve or disapprove the measure. 
1 he wardens are also authorized to fix and determine 
the extent and distance to which wharves may be 
built in Schuylkill, on either of its shores, from the 
lower falls, to its junction with the river Delaware.=^ 

No burning or breaming vessels is permitted at 
any wharf between Cedar street and Vine street 
under a penalty of one hundred and fifty dollars! 

Pilots. 

There are three classes of Pilots. The first are 
permitted to pilot vessels of any depth of water : the 
second, those of twelve feet or under: the third, those 
of nine feet or under. Every pilot must serve an 
apprenticeship of six years to a first rate pilot. In 
four years, he may, if found qualified, take out a li- 
cence for the third class : after one year more he 
may take out one for the second class. At the end 
,i)f the sixth year, he may become a first rate pi- 
!lot. The licences must be annually renewed. The 



» Act, March 28th, 1805. 



72 PILOTS. 

indentures of pilots are recorded in the warden's 
office : previously to granting any licence, the pilot 
must conduct a square rigged vessel, twice up and 
down the river, under the inspection of a pilot of 
the first branch. Pilots must give bond for the 
faithful performance of their duty. If required, they 
must shew their licences to the master of any vessel 
they may take charge of. Extra services of pilots are 
to be paid for agreeably to the detei-mination of the 
board of wardens, provided the parties cannot agree. 
Vessels outward bound are to remain twenty-four 
hours at the capes, to give the pilots an opportunity 
to be taken out : in case of reiusal so to do on the 
part of the captain, pilots are entitled to a sum not 
exceeding 800 dollars. If carried to sea, first branch 
pilots receive captain's wages until their death, or re- 
turn : if a second rate pilot be carried off, he is en- 
titled to the wages of first mate : if a third rate pilot, 
to the wages oi'seamen. If they have no boat attending 
them, they are only to be entitled to half the afore- 
said wages. Two dollars per day, are allowed to 
pilots detained by ice, or by the master or owner, or 
while perlorming quarantine : if prevented by icei 
or other causes from entering the port of Philadel-j 
phia, and are compelled to proceed to another port, 
they are entitled to full pilotage, and to eight cents 
mileage. Pilots occasioning the loss of vessels b; 
carelessness, are suspended and fined by the warder 
and subject to prosecution for damages at commo: 
law. 

Fifty cents are paid for a licence. The rates of 
pilotage for inward bound vessels are as follows. 

For everv half foot of water drawn by a vessel, up 
to twelve feet, one dollar and thirty three cents 
above twelve feet, one dollar sixty seven cents. 

Outward bound vessels pay as follows. 



HARBOUR MASTER. To 

For every half foot of water up to twelve feet, 
one dollar : more than twelve feet, one dollar thirty- 
three cents. For every vessel not registered in the 
United States, they are to receive two dollars and 
sixty seven cents : and for conducting vessels up to 
the city from 20th November to 10th of March, the 
additional sum of ten dollars. Compensation for 
conducting to or from the city all crippled vessels, 
which may have required extra care and trouble, is 
not to exceed double the amount of what they other- 
wise would have been entitled to, of which the war- 
dens shall judge. 

All vessels arriving from foreign ports, and every 
vessel of seventy-five tons, outward bound, must re- 
ceive a pilot ; the master is required to report to 
the warden's office the name of the vessel, her draught 
of water, and the pilot's name, within thirty-six hours 
after her arrival ; and if outward bound, before she 
leaves the port, under a penalty^ of sixty dollars. 
Masters refusing to take a pilot, pay a sum equal 
to half pilotage of the vessel, for the benefit of dis- 
tressed and decayed pilots. 

Pilots are to report to the office, the vessels they 
bring up. For making a false report, they pay a fine of 
twelve dollars. Injuries sustained in their boats in re- 
lieving vessels are to be made good by the owner 
of the vessel. Pilots neglecting to attend their duty 
for two weeks, forfeit their licence. 

Harbour blaster. 

In the year 1793, The useful office of Harbour 
Master was established. He is authorized to en- 
force and superintend the execution of the laws of 
the Commonwealth, of the City Corporation, and the 
bye laws of the wardens, for cleaning the docks, pre- 
venting nuisances at the wharves ; for regulating 



r* MANUFACTURES. 

and stationing ships in the stream, or at the wharves , 
and for removing vessels to accommodate others ; 
his compensation is one dollar, for every vessel 
above 75 tons burthen. 

Manufactures, 

Philadelphia has long been celebrated for her 
various manufactures ; and they have much increas- 
ed in variety and extent, since the late interruption 
to our foreign commerce. It would be inconsistent 
with the nature of this work, to enter minutely into 
this subject ; but a general view of them may be 
given. 

The various coarser metallic articles, which enter 
so largely into the wants and business of mankind, 
are manufactured to a great extent, in a variety of 
forms, and in a substantial manner. All the various 
edged tools for mechanics are extensively made ; and 
it may be mentioned as a fact calculated to excite 
surprise, that our common screw augur, an old and 
extensively useful instrument, has been recently an- 
nounced in the British publications, as a capital im- 
provement in mechanics, as it certainly is, and that 
all attempts by foreign artists to make this instrument 
durable, have failed. 

The finer kinds of metals are wrought with neat- 
ness and taste. The numerous varieties of tin ware 
in particular, may be mentioned as worthy of atten- 
tion. But above all, the working of the precious met- 
als has reached a degree of perfection highly credita- 
ble to the artists. Silver plate fully equal to ster- 
ling, as to quality and execution is now made, and the 
plated wares are superior to those commonly import- 
ed in the way of trade. Floor cloths of great variety 
of patterns, without seams, and the colours bright, 
hard and durable j various printed cotton stuffs, 



MANUFACTURES. 1'^ 

warranted fast colours; earthen ware, yellow and i-cti, 
and stone ware are extensively made ; experiments 
shew, that ware equal to that of StalFordsliire might 
be manufactured, if workmen could be procured. 

The supply of excellent patent shot is greater than 
the demand. All the chemical drugs, and mineral 
acids of superior quality, are made by several per- 
sons : also, cards, carding and spinning machines 
for cotton, flax, and wool. Woollen, worsted, and 
thread hosiery have long given employment to our 
German citizens : and recently, cotton stockings have 
been extensively made. 

Paints of twentv-two different colours, brilliant and 
durable, are in common use, from native materials ; 
the supply of which is inexhaustible. The chromate 
of lead, that superb yellow colour, is scarcely equal- 
led by any foreign paint. There are fifteen rope-walks 
in our vicinit}^. We no longer depend upon Europe 
for excellent and handsome paper hangings, or paste- 
board, or paper of any kind. The innumerable arti- 
cles into which leather enters, are neatly and substan- 
tially made : the article sadlery forms an immense 
item in the list. The leather has greatly improved 
in quality ; the exportation of boots and shoes to 
the southern states is great ; and to the West Indies 
before the interruption to trade, was immense. 
Morocco leather is extensively manufactured. The 
superiority of the carriages, either as respects ex- 
cellence of workmanship, fashion, or finish, has long 
been acknowledged. The type-foundery of Binny 8c 
Ronaldson, supplies nearly all the numerous printing 
offices in the United States. There are one hundred 
and two hatters in the city and liberties. Tobacco in 
every form, gives employ to an immense capital. The 
refined sugar of Philadelphia has long been celebra- 
ted : ten refineries are constantly at work. Excellent 
japanned and pewter ware : muskets, rifles, fowling 



76 MANUFACTURES. 

pieces and pistols are made with great neatness. The 
cabinet ware is elegant, and with the manufactory 
of wood generally, is very extensive. The houses, are 
ornamented with marble of various hues and quali- 
ties, from the quarries near Philadelphia. 

Mars Works, at the corner of Ninth and Vine 
streets, and on the Ridge road, the property of Oli- 
ver Evans, consists of an iron foundery, mould-ma- 
ker's shop, steam engine manufactory, black-smith's 
shop, and mill-stone manufactory, and a steam engine 
used for grinding sundry materials, for the use of the 
works, and for turning and boreing heavy cast and 
wrought iron work. The buildings occupy one hun- 
dred and eighty eight feet front, and about thirty five 
workmen are daily employed. They manufacture 
all cast or wrought iron work, for machinery for 
mills, for grinding grain, or sawing timber; for forges, 
rolling and slitting mills, sugar mills, apple mills, bark 
mills, &c. Pans of all dimensions used by sugar boilers, 
soap boilers, &c. Screws of all sizes for cotton presses, 
tobacco presses, paper presses, cast iron gudgeons, and 
boxes for mills and waggons, carriage boxes, &c. and 
all kinds of small wheels and machinery for cotton and 
wool spinning &c.Mr.Evans also makes steam engines 
on improved principles, invented and patented by the 
proprietor, which are more powerful and. less compli- 
cated, and cheaper than others; requiring less fuel, 
and not more than one fiftieth part of the coals 
commonly used. The small one in use at the works, 
is on this improved principle, and is of great use in 
facilitating the manufactory of others. The proprie- 
tor has erected one of his improved steam engines 
in the town of Pittsburgh, and employed to drive three 
pair of large millstones with all the machinery for 
cleaning the grain, elevating, spreading and stirring, 
and cooling the meal, gathering and bolting, &c. &c. 
The power is equal to twenty four horses, and will 



MANUFACTURES. 77 

do as much work as seventy-two horses in twenty- 
four hours; it would drive five pair of six feet mill- 
stones, and grind five hundred bushels of wheat in 
twenty-four hours. 

All kinds of castings are also made at the Eagle 
works, on Schuylkill, belonging to S. & W. Richards. 

Breiveries — Distilleries. 

Beer was brewed in Philadelphia for several years 
before the revolutionary war, and soon after peace 
the more substantial porter v/as made by the late Mr. 
Robert Hare. Until within three or four years, the 
consumption of that article had greatly increased, 
and is now the common table drink of every family 
in easy circumstances. The quality of it is truly ex- 
cellent : to say that it is equal to any of London, 
the usual standard for excellence, would undervalue 
it, because as it regards either wholesome qualities 
or palatableness, it is much superior ; no other in- 
gredients entering into the composition than malt, 
hops, and pure water : and yet to a foreign porter 
palate, accustomed to the impression left by the com- 
bmation of the heterogenous compound called Eng- 
lish malt liquor,"^ our home brewed stuff will no 
doubt appear insipid. A fair experiment has shewn 
them, that even so far back as 1790,f Philadelphia 
porter bore the wai-m climate of Calcutta, and came 
back uninjured. In 1807, orders were given by the 
merchants of Calcutta, after tasting some of it taken 



* It appears fi-om British publications, that owing to the exces- 
sive duty upon hops and malt in England, very little of those 
articles are now used in the manufacture of beer, porter, and ale. 
The substitutes are tobacco, aloes, liquorice, quassia root, and 
green vitriol. 

\ Carey's American Museum, vol. 10. p. 7- 

g2 



78 MANUFACTURES. 

out as stores, for sixty hogsheads. Within a few 
years, pale ale of the first quality is brewed, and justly 
esteemed, being light, sprightly, and free from that 
bitterness which distinguishes porter. Coleman's 
deserves particular notice. The quantity of each 
particular malt liquor brewed in Philadelphia, can- 
not be given, as there is no excise, nor duty up- 
on hops or malt, and if there be no other mode of 
ascertaining the point, it is to be hoped we shall 
ever remain ignorant on the subject. Great quan- 
tities of porter, ale, and beer, are exported to the other 
States. The hops are almost entirely brought from 
New England ; much of the barley comes from the 
same quarter, especially Rhode Island. 

The distilleries of rum, whiskey, and for rectifying, 
are numerous: and the improvements in the art are ge- 
neral and great. The preperation of gin has become an 
important business, and its exportation regular and 
extensive. We still however, want the knowledge of 
the peculiar art, of giving it that flavour which justly 
renders the Holland gin so deservedly esteemed. 
The discovery of the principle upon which this de- 
pends, remains for some enterprizing American. 

The taste and merit of the mechanics are exhib- 
ited in no respect more clearly, than in the general 
construction of shipping ; which commonly sail well, 
work easily, and ar^ very strong. Various improve- 
ments, it is understood, have been introduced, tend- 
ing to increase their capacity, without diminishing 
their strength or power of sailing. In the accommo- 
dations too, and arrangements for passengers, when 
built with that view, they are very convenient. Their 
external appearance is much improved by the skill of 
that— excellent carver, William Rush, who without i 
the advantage of seeing any good models, or hav- 
ing any instruction from great masters, has arrived 
to much eminence in his art, and is thought to sur- 



MANUFACTURES. 79 

pass any naval carver in Europe. This is a bold 
assertion ; but the voluntary expression of admira- 
tion excited in Europe by his elegant figures, and the 
opportunities of comparison with the works of Eu- 
ropeans, afforded by commerce, in every part of the 
world, and even the opinion of British artists, may 
be adduced in its justification. The striking likeness 
of Mr. John Adams, late president of the United 
States, as a head for the frigate bearing his name, and 
of others, from memory alone, are full proofs of the 
powers of his mind, and the success of his chisel. 

Before the American war, a considerable spirit 
prevailed for the culture of the silk worm : and a so- 
ciety was established for its encouragement, with a 
fund for the purchase of the raw material. The 
common black mulberry, was found to answer well 
for the food of the insect, A filature was also 
erected under the direction of the society, on the, 
present site of the University in Ninth street. In 
one instance, a lady in the vicinity of Philadelphia, 
raised on her father's farm, as many worms as pro- 
duced a piece of silk, of m.ore than fifty yards in 
length ; it was manufactured in London, under the 
care of Dr. Franklin, in 1772. 

The following is a short abstract of the marshal's 
report of the Manufactures in the city and county of 
Philadelphia. 

Looms - - - 273 
Spinning-wheels, - 3,648 
Oil Mills, - - 3 

r- ' 1 -«. rvalue of work last 

Carriage makers, - 17 j^^^ ^498,500 

Soap and Candle makers, 28 
Glue Manufactures, 14 

Distilleries - - 18 |?!"S"' ^'f^±h 



Sugar Refineries, - 10 



(^1810, 12,83818 



8a HISTORY OF THE PRESS. 



Ropewalks, 
Potteries, 


- 


15 
16 


Tobacco and SnuiF, 
Copper Brass and Tin, 


27 

44 


Hatters Shops, 
Paper Mills, 
Printing Offices, 
Cutlers, 


- 


102 

r 

51 

28 


Gunsmiths 


- 


10* 


Glass works, 


- 


2 



The above is generally deemed under the actual 
number of the distilleries, mechanics and manufactu- 



Press — History — Progress — Present state. 

Among the numerous respectable men, and useful 
mechanics, who early emigrated to the new world, 
was William Bradford, printer, who in less than six 
weeks after the city was founded, established a press. 



* Abstract of the amount of the annual manufactures, manufac- 
turing establishments, &c. in the Commonwealth of Pennsylva- 
nia, as per the return of the assistants to the marshal of the dis- 
trict, for the year 1810. 

Manufactures in Flax, Hemp, Wool, and Cotton, §4,279,174 

In Grain, Fruit, &.c 15,778,424 

In Leather, 3,155,967 

In Lead, 296,800 

In Iron, 5,869,487 

In Tanneries , 1,607,804 

Manufacturing Establishments in Cotton, Wool,") , <,,,i n.,. 
Hemp, and Flax,3 ^'"^-"^'^^^ 

Hats 1,296,346 

Paper, &c 1,227,766 

Miscellaneous, . . . §7,883,892 
964.966 
6j3,113 
..... 9,451,941 

§44,194,740 



HISTORY OF PRINTING. »l 

The first specimen of his work, is a sheet almanac,* 
for the year 1687", in twelve compartments ; the year 
beginning with March, and ending with February, as 
was usual, before the 18th century. A copy of this 
first specimen of American typography, is preserved 
in the public library of Philadelphia. The place of 
his residence is not certainly known : but in 1689, 
another work, on the subject of the New England 
Churches, by G. Keith, is dated in that year, in 
Philadelphia. — Disputes having arisen in the So- 
ciety of Friends, Bradford took part with the mi- 
nority, and published the pamphlets of Keith and 
Thomas Budd, against the governing party, which 
occasioned the imprisonment of himself and friends, 
and induced him after his liberation, to settle in New 
York,| to which place he removed in 1690. 

Reinier Jansen, evidently a Dutchman by name, 
but of whose history, no facts are on record; manag- 
ed Bradford's Press in Pennsylvania in his own name, 
after the removal of the latter to New York, until 
the year 1712, when Andrew Bradford, son of Wil- 
iam, came from New York, and from that time un- 
;il 1723, was the only printer in the colony. In 
1719, he printed the first newspaper in Pennsylvania, 
n company with John Copson ; it was entitled the 
■' American Weekly Mercury," and printed on a 
lalf sheet of paper. He also printed the Almanacs 
of Jacob Taylor, Titan Leed, John Jerman, and 
William Birket for several years. — In 1723, a se- 

* The title of this work, is " An Almanac for the year of the 
Christian account, 1687 ; particularly respecting the meridian- 
and latitude of Burlington, but may indifferently suit all places 
adjacent. By Daniel I.eeds, Student in Agriculture. Printed and 
sold by William Bradford, near Philadelphia, in Pennsylvania 
pro. Anno. I687." — Thomas's History of Printing, p. 1—8. 

f The particulars are detailed in the History of Printing, in 
Amei-ica, by Isaiah Tiiomas : a work which will amply repay the 
reader for the perusal. 



82 HISTORY OF THE PRESS. 

cond printing office was opfened by Samuel Keimer, 
of whom several curious anecdotes are given by Dr. 
Franklin,* and I. Thomas. — He printed the second 
newspaper in Pennsylvania, commencing December 
24, 1728, and entitled the " Universal Instructor in 
all Arts and Sciences, and Pennsylvania Gazette." 
It was a, folio sheet. After the return of Franklin ' 
from England (in 1727,) he united for a short time 
with Hugh Meridith, and continued Keimer's pa- 
per, on a whole or a half sheet, as occasion required. 
In 1747-8, it was published by Franklin and D. 
Hall, on a whole sheet, crown iolio, and afterwards 
enlarged. The successors of Hall, continue this pa- 
per weekly under the title of the '•• Pennsylvania Ga- 
zette." 

William Bradford, grandson of the first William, 
commenced printing a weekly paper in 1742, which 
was continued by himandhissuccessors untilaboutthe 
year 1797. Various others succeeded,! some of which 
were given up, and some continue. A German news- 
paper was printed weekly in Philadelphia, so early as 
1 743, by Joseph Crellius, under the direction of the 
late Rev. Dr. Smith, provost of the college of Phila- 
delphia, who had also the management of the German 
press, an appointment he received from a benevolent 
society in London, instituted for " promoting religi- 



* Franklin 


's life. 




f Pennsylvania Chronicle Pi 


om 1767 


to 1773 Goddard 


Pen. Packet 


1771 


Dunlap 


Pen. Ledger 


1773 


1776 Humphreys 


Pen. livening Post 


1775 


Towiie 


Pen. Mercury 


1775 


1775 Story and 
Humphreys 


Phila. Gazette German 


1762 


17791 


Freeman's Journal 


1781 


1792 Bailey 


Independent Gazetteer 


1781 


1796 Oswald 



^ Thomas's History of Printing. 



PERIODICAL WORKS. 83 

ous knowledge among the Germans in Pennsylva- 
nia." A German paper had been printed quarterly 
in the year 1739, at Germantown, seven miles from 
Philadelphia, by C. Sower, who cast his own types, 
and made his own ink. It was afterwards printed 
monthly, and in 1744, every week, under the title of 
" The Germantown Gazette, by C. Sower, jun." until 
some time in the revolutionary war. 

The " Pennsylvania Packet, or General Adverti- 
ser," was first printed weekly by John Dunlap in 1771, 
and continued at Lancaster from 1778 to 177,9, 
while the British had possession of Philadelphia: on 
the evacuation of the city, it was published twice a 
week ; in the year 1784, in conjunction with David 
C. Claypoole, who had served his time with Mr. 
Dunlap, it was printed daily ; this was the first daily 
paper printed in the United States. — In 1801, the 
paper was sold to Zachariah Poulson, who continues 
it to this day, under a very respectable patronage, — 
the title is " The American Daily Advertiser." 

At present there are printed in Philadelphia, eight 
daily papers, — viz. 

3Iorn'mg. 
Poulson's American Daily Advertiser, 1784 
Duane, . . Aurora, . 1790 

Bradford . True American, 1797 

M'Corkle . Freeman's Journal, 1804 

Evening. 
Relf . Philadelphia Gazette. 1788 

Bronson . Gazette U. States. 1791 

Jackson . Register, . 1804 

Binns . Democratic Press. 1807 

Three times a week. 
Duane, McCorkle, Binns. 
Twice a week. 
Bronson. 
Weekly. 
Hall and Pierie Pennsylvania Gazette* 



i. 



84 HISTORY OF PRINTING. 

Duane 

Binns 

Conrad Gentler,! Amerit^ischer Beobachter. 



'1 



John Geyer, ^ ^^^^^^^ 

German. J 
Repertory 
* Helmbold Tickler — occasionally. ] 

It has been ascertained that 19,298 impressions" 
of the above papers are distributed every week.f 

It may be useful to notice the other periodical and" 
literary works, published in former times in Phila- 
delphia. 

In 1741, Franklin attempted " the General Ma- 
gazine, and Historical Chronicle, in 12 mo. price 
12*. per annum," but continued it only six months. 

A. Bradford printed in 1741 for the editor and 
proprietor, John Webbe, " The American Maga- 
zine, in 8vo." two numbers of which only appeared. 

In 1757, William Bradford, printed " The Ame- 
rican Magazine, or Monthly Chronicle," for the 
British colonies ; By a society of gentlemen. Three 
numbers only were printed. 

In 1769, Lewis Nichola, published " The Ame- 
rican Magazine," each number containing 48 pages. 
It ended with the year. " The Penny Post," by 
Potts, succeeded for a few months. 

In 1771, John M'Gibbons published a' few num- 
bers of " The Royal Spiritual Magazine." 

In 1775, the late Robert Aitken published " The 
Pennsylvania Magazine, or American Monthly 
Museum," the editor of which was Thomas Paine. 
It was well conducted, and may be read at the pre- 
sent day with entertainment and profit. It began in 
January 1775, and closed in July 1776. 



Thomas enumerates 71 papers m the state of Pennsylvania. 
t liobinson'.s Directory. 



HISTORY OF PRINTING. 85 

In the year 1779, Francis Bailey, printed nine 
numbers ©i" the " United States Magazine." 

In the year 1786, the " Columbian Magazine" 
was began by Mathew Carey, Charles Cist and 
William Spottswood. It was pu^blished monthly, for 
about eight years. Shortly after its commencement, 
the sole proprietorship devolved upon William 
Spottswood, who, after the lapse of about three 
years, sold it to Mr. William Young, who finally 
discontinued it in 1793. Considering the situation 
of the country at the time, this work was respecta- 
bly conducted. 

In January 1787, Mathew Carey commenced the 
publication of the American Museum, which was 
intended to combine the plan of a common miscel- 
laneous magazine, and historical chronicle, or regis- 
ter of the tunes. It was ably conducted, and it is 
sincerely to be regretted that want of encourage- 
ment obliged the editor and proprietor to relinquish 
his useful labours. Twelve volumes in a regular se- 
ries were pviblished. A thirteenth volume was pub- 
lished in 1798. Every public library in the I/nited 
States, ought to possess a copy of this work. 

Previously to the establishment of the federal go- 
vernment, the book trade v/as of small account ; 
some foreign works of merit were however pub- 
lished. But at the sera mentioned, the business par- 
took of that increased life and vigour, which the new 
state of public affairs universally diftlised. Since 
that time, the increase of printing, and of the arts 
connected therevv ith, have been very rapid in Phila- 
delphia. 

In 1786, four book-sellers thought an edition of 
the New Testament, for schools, a work of risque, 
requiring much consultation previously to the deter- 
mination of the measure : yet such was the rapid 
progress of things, that in 1790, one of the boojk- 



86 HISTORY OF PRINTING. 

sellers above referred to, thought it safe to risque 
the publication of the ENCYCLOPitDiA, in eighteen 
quarto volumes, and even promised that it should be 
improved. When the first half volume was publish- 
ed, in 1790, he had but 246 subscribers, and could 
only procure two or three engravers. One thousand 
copies of the first volume were printed : two thou- 
sand of the second; and when he had completed the 
eighth, the subscription extended so far as to render 
it necessary to reprint the first. He then found diffi- 
culty in procuring printers tor the work.* 

In 1792, Ebenezer Hazard Esq. published a quar- 
to volume of " Historical collections," intended as 
materials for a history of the United States, and ano- 
ther in 1794. These collections were the result of 
much assiduous application, and made under the 
patronage of Congress, whose recommendation pro- 
cured him access to the records of the state legisla- 
tures. 

The quarto Bible, set up by Mathew Carey, in Phi- 
lade^.^hia, was the first standing Bible, of that size, in 
the world, and is even now, the only one of separate 
types. These were cast by Binney and Ronaldson, of 
Philadelphia. Printing is now executed in a style 
equal to that of any country in Europe ; and some 
specimens of truly superb work, as Barlow's Colum- 
hiad, and Willson's Ornithology, have been sent 
forth. The plates in Bradford and Inskeep's edition 
of Ree's Cyclopaedia, now in progress, are much su- 
perior to those in the original English work ; and 
the printing, fully equal thereto. 

The number of volumes printed in Philadelphia, 
annually, are calculated at 500,000.* There are fifty- 
one printing offices, which have 153 presses.f 



* Hopkinson's oration before tlie Academy of Fine Arts. No- 
vember, 1810.— p. 19. 

f Robinson's Directory, for 1811, 



PERIODICAL PUBLICATIONS. 87 

There are upwards of sixty engravei-s in Philadel- 
phia, and twenty more would find constant employ. 
The improvement of the art has been very con:^ide- 
rable, within a few years past. 

Periodical Publications, 

The following periodical works are at present pub- 
lished in Philadelphia. 

Monthhj. 

1. The Port Folio, by Joseph Dennie : a miscel- 
laneous work. It was at first a weekly sheet, and 
commenced in 1801. Bradford and Inskeep. Price S6. 

2. Mirror of Taste and Dramatic Censor. T. B. 
Zantzinger, & Co. Price S8. 

3. Select Reviews and Spirit of the Magazines, 
By E. Bronson, and others, 1809. Earl. Price %5, 

^larterly. 

4. Medical Museum. By J. R. Coxe, M. D. — 

Humphreys. 7 vols. Price %2. 

5. Eclectic Repertory, and Analytical Review, 
Medical and Philosophical ; by a society of Physi- 
cians, 1810. Earl. Price g3. 

6. Archives of Useful Knowledge. Devoted to 
commerce, manufactures, rural and domestic econo- 
my, agriculture, and the useful arts. By James 
Mease, M. D Hogan. Price %2. 

7. American Review o5 history, politics, and ge^ 
neral repository of literature and state papers. By 
Robert Walsh, jun. — Farrand and NichoUs. Price ^6. 



88 LAW REPORTS. 

S e mi- annually . 

8. American Register, or General Repository ot 
History, Politics and Science. Commenced in 1806. 
7 volumes. — C. and A. Conrad. Price §3 25. 

Occasional Law Reports. 

Reports of cases adjudged in the Supreme Court 
of Pennsylvania. By Horace Binney. Farrand and 
Nicholls. Two volumes have betn published. Price 
S6 each. 

Reports of cases adjudged in the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas, of the first district. By P. A. Browne. 
1 vol. — D. Hogan. Price g3. 

Former Government of Philadelphia. 

The first frame of Government published by Penn 
in England, for his new Province, had evidently been 
drawn from the celebrated "Oceana" of Harrington; 
a work which theoretical writers have supposed, ex- 
hibits the best picture of a perfect Commonwealth. 
Penn soon found upon bringing his principles to the 
test of experience, that they were not suited to the 
multiplied wants of men bustling m the scenes of 
active life, nor to calm the jealousies and contend- 
ing interests of a people engaged in the arduous task 
of subduing the wilderness. 

The government was vested in a Governor, and 
freemen constituting a council : one third of which 
was to be chosen for three years, one third for two 
years, and one third for one year, in such a manner 
that there should be an annual succession of 
twenty four new members. The council was to con- 
sist of seventy two members, to be chosen by the 
freemen ; the governor, or his representative was 



FORMER GOVERNMENT. 89 

to be perpetual President, but only had a treble 
vote. The general assembly^ in the true democratic 
style, was at first to consist of all the freemen ; af- 
terwards of two hundred, and never to exceed five 
hundred. 

This singular frame was abolished in a few months 
after the arri\ al of Penn, and another granted on the 
second of April 1683 : but such was the difficulty ot 
either fixing on the most eligible iorm, or oi fully 
satisfying the adventurers, that this was also given 
up, as well as another passed on the seventh oi No- 
vember 1696 ; and it was not until the year 1701,* 
during the last visit of the proprietary, that the charter 
was granted which lasted until the commencement of 
the American revolution. 

I'he charter of the city of Philadelphia was dated 
ihe 25th October 1701. Before that day, Philadel- 
phia was called the town. 

By this charter William Penn nominated the first 
mayor, recorder, aldermen and common councilmen, 
and granted them, among other privileges ancUran- 
chises, that ot electing others to supply vacancies, and 
even to increase their own number at pleasure ; the 
public grounds were granted to them by the name of 
the mayor and commonalty of the city of Philadel- 
phia, but the commonalty had no share in the gov- 
ernment or estate of the city, the whole body being 
seli-elective, and not accountable to the citizens in 
any respect. It would be difficult to account tor so 
extraordinary a charter from the wisdom of William 
Penn, did not we know that among the first settlers, 
were a considerable number from the city of Bristol 
inEngland, whose charter granted at an early period, 
before the rights of the commonalty were well under- 

* 28th October. 



90 FORMER GOVERNMENT. 

stood, had been familiarized by habit, which indu* 
ced them to request a similar one : a copy of the 
Bristol charter was accordingly procured, and with 
little variations adopted. It was not long however, 
before the commonalty began to be dissatisfied with 
it, and to make frequent complaints to the assem- 
bly, of the abuses that were practised under it ; ma- 
ny of which appear upon the minutes of the house. 
At an early period after the charter, the legislative 
powers of this corporation were very limited : they 
could not levy a shilling by taxes, ior any use what- 
ever, and could employ the income of the city estates 
only for the use and embellishment o'l the city ; where- 
fore we see few monuments raised to preserve the 
memory of that corporation. Although the first men 
for integrity and abilities to be found in the city, were 
elected into the office of the body politic, yet such is 
the nature of unlimited power, not accountable to the 
people, that it will divert the best men from purpo- 
ses, which, before they were invested with the pow- 
er, they would have highly approved. The jealousy 
v/h:ch the citizens entertained oi the corporation, per- 
vaded the general assembly of the province ; and 
when the lighting, watching, and paving the city be- 
came a desirable object, the representatives of the 
freemen would not entrust the corporation alone with 
the power o.i raising -or expending the money neces- 
sary for these purposes ; they would not however 
cast such a reflection on the respectable characters 
of which that body was composed, as wholly to vest 
these powers with others : but pursued a middle line, 
and constituted two separate bodies, by the names of 
city wardens and street commissioners, to the former 
of whom, the lighting and watching, and to the latter, 
the paving of the streets, was committed ; the mayor 
or recorder, and four of the aldermen concurring 
with each body, in laying the taxes and prescribing 



FORMER GOVERNMENT. 91 

the mode of expending them ; thus the city legisla- 
tion for these purposes, became compovmded of two 
branches : the wardens and commissioners immedi- 
ately elected by the people, in the same manner as 
their representatives in assembly, constituted the de- 
mocratic ; and the mayor and aldermen, the aristo- 
cratic branch. These bodies, thus compounded, con- 
ducted the business committed to them, with great 
harmony ; nor is there the least recollection of any 
disagreement between them : the taxes were laid 
with equality, collected with moderation, and expend- 
ed for the real use and improvement of the city : one 
complaint only, had foundation, which arose from 
the nature, rather than from any abuse of the pow- 
ers : the number of wardens and street commission- 
ers was so great, as at very moderate wages, to ren- 
der those boards too expensive. 

For the honour of the late corporation it ought not 
to be omitted, that the mayor's court was always fill- 
ed with an able lawyer for the recorder, and ano- 
ther for the prosecution of criminal oifences : and 
such was the orderly and upright administration of 
justice in it, that no court in the province, or perhaps 
any other country, exceeded it. 

The legislature convened after the declaration of 
independence declared, by an act passed during their 
first session " That the powers and jurisdiction hither- 
to exercised by the mayor, recorder, and aldermen of 
the city of Philadelphia, were not founded on the au- 
thority of the people, and are therefore become null 
and void." Wherefore, by that and several subsequent 
acts, the powers of the corporation were distributed 
between the supreme executive council, the city ma- 
gistrates, and the wardens and street commissioners, 
who exercised them from the year 1 Tl'l to 1 789. The 
prejudices which had no foundation as to corporations 
in general, but only against the constitution of the late 



92 PRESENT GOVERNMENT. 

corporation of the city, were however so strong, that 
the people could scarcely be prevailed on to submit to 
a new incorporation. The defects in the administra- 
tion of justice, and the police of the city, at length 
became so glaring, as to be seen by all classes of peo- 
ple ; and they were prepared for an act of incorpora" 
tion. 

Present Government. 

The law for incorporating the city of Philadelphia, 
was passed on the 11th of March, 1809, and has been 
amended by several supplements. It may be impor- 
tant to mention the occasion of one of these supple- 
ments. A very wise law had been passed, to prevent 
the erection of wooden buildings, in the thickly set- 
tled parts of the city : and on the penalty of the law 
being about to be enforced, it was held, by some great 
law characters, that as fines, penalties and forfeit- 
ures inured to the benefit of the corporation, no free- 
man thereof was competent to prove the breach of 
the said ordinances, inasmuch as the same would 
operate a diminution of his share of contribution for 
supporting such corporation : but the legislature 
considering that it would be in some cases imprac- 
ticable to prove breaches of laws by any other testi- 
mony, or to determine respecting the same, before 
any other than judges or jurors liable to such ex- 
ceptions, and that the interest of each individual 
in the application of such fines and forfeitures, is 
too inconsiderable to give an improper bias to his 
testimony, resolved in 1799, that every freeman of the 
citv or any corporate town, shall be qualified as a 
witness to prove a breach of the ordinances, except 
he be a pauper, called to give testimony touching 
the breach of any ordinance by which fines or 
penalties are appropriated, and out of which he re- 



PRESENT GOVERNMENT. 9S 

eeives alms, or pensions. Courts, aldermen and bur- 
gesses are also qualified to decide respecting breach- 
es of the ordinances and by-laws ; and freemen to 
be competent jurymen, notwithstanding their interest 
as members of the corporation. 

There are two legislative branches, viz. Select and 
Common Councils. The first consist of twelve, the 
latter of twenty members. 

One third of the Select, and the whole of the 
Common Council are chosen annually by the people, 
at the general election on the second Tuesday of Octo- 
ber, and their first business is to appoint a mayor for 
one year, from among the body of aldermen. The 
recorder, and aldermen, of whom there are fifteen, 
are appointed by the governor during good behaviour. 
Both are required to take an oath for the faith- 
ful performance of their duties. 

The whole legislative power of the corporation 
is vested exclusively in the councils, who act as 
separate and distinct bodies, and are authorized 
" to make, ordain, constitute and establish such laws, 
provided the same shall not be repugnant to the 
laws and constitution of the commonwealth, as shall 
be necessary for the government and welfare of the 
city." They are required to publish their laws in 
two or more newspapers of the city, within ten days 
after their being passed, otherwise they shall be null 
and void : and are to be recorded in the office of 
the recorder of deeds. Councils deliberate with open 
doors. 

The mayor and aldermen have severally the 

powers of a justice of peace and oyer and terminer. 

The salary of the former is two thousand dollars 

i annually, besides fees of office. That of the latter is 

l one thousand dollars, with some fees. 

He is authorized to appoint a legal character, to 
be attorney for the corporation, whose duty it is 



94 PRESENT GOVEllNMENT. 

to draught all bonds, obligations and contracts, &c, 
requisite to be done and made between the corpo- 
ration and the citizens ; to prosecute all suits brought 
by the corporation, and to defend all actions com- 
menced against it, and to furnish the councils and 
mayor with his opinions on any subject which may 
be submitted to him. 

He also appoints the city commissioners, the high 
constables, watchmen, the corders of wood at the 
public landings, and all other officers of the corpora- 
tion, except those of the council, and the city trea- 
surer. 

The corporate title is, "The Mayor, Aldermen, 
and Citizens of Philadelphia." 

The organization of the city government is upon 
the plan of our State Constitution, and the various i 
branches composing it are justly balanced, and their: 
powers distinct. The whole authority in the first in- 
stance emanates from the people, the whole are 
amenable for misconduct, and at various but stated! 
times, the officers return to the mass of citizens. 
The Common Council represents the freemen ; and 
the danger of hasty resolutions, which so often dis- 
grace single legislatures, is guarded against by the 
election of the Select Council, whose concurrence 
is essential to the adoption of a final measure. 

The mayors in succession since the last incorpo- 
ration, have been, Samuel Powel, Samuel Miles, Mat- 
thew Clarkson, John Barclay, Hilary Baker, John 
Innskeep, Matthew Lawler, John Inskeep, Robert 
Wharton, John Barker, Robert Wharton. 

The recorders, Alexander Willcox, Moses Levy, 
Mahlon Dickerson, Joseph Reed. 

Solicitor, William Merideth. 



PRESENT GOVERKxMENT. 95 

District of Southwark, 

In 1794, the distinct of Southwark was incorpora- 
ted. It is bounded on the North by the south side 
of Cedar street, on the West by the west side of 
Passyunk road ; on the South, by a line commencing 
at Wharton's place, running Eastward until it strikes 
Keelor's lane at Moyamensing road, following said 
lane to the Point road ; thence a due east course to 
the Delaware river-. The board of commissioners 
consists of fifteen members, one third of whom are 
chosen annually. The annual tax is about §4,500. 

Northern Liberties. 

In 1803, the inhabitants of that part of the North- 
ern Liberties lying between the west side of Sixth 
street and the river Delaware, and between Vine 
street and Cohocksink creek, were incorporated, and 
are to have perpetual succession, and empowered to 
acquire and hold real and personal estate. Five com- 
missioners are annually chosen to serve for three 
years, who make the usual municipal regulations, 
and execute all the powers incident to the corpora- 
tion. Their accounts are to be annually published. 

Circuit and District Courts, 

I The sittings of two of the federal courts, are held 
in Philadelphia, for the Pennsylvania district. The 
Circuit court may, when circumstances, in the opinion 
of the judges, require, ,sit at York Town, in this dis- 
trict. The District court, generally sits in the city ; 
but may hold its session in any part of the district. 
The stated sessions of the circuit court are held 
twice in every year, viz. On the 11th days of 



96 FEDERAL COURTS. 

April and October. But it may hold special ses- 
sions, when circumstances render them necessary. 
It is a court of much and important business ; which 
is dispatched with commendable promptitude. Its 
judges are now, Bushrod Washington, one of the 
associate judges of the supreme court of the United 
States, with whom is associated, agreeably to law, 
Richard Peters, the district judge. Either judge, in 
the absence of the other, may hold the court. It is a 
court of original jurisdiction, in most of its duties: 
but it is appellate, in cases of appeals from the final 
decisions of the district court ; and such appeals are 
decided by the judge of the supreme court alone. 
Errors in point of law are also subjects for the cog- 
nizance and review of this court, when legally brought 
up from the district court. It has criminal, admiral- 
ty, common law, and chancery jurisdiction. The 
two first are exclusive of the state jurisdiction. But : 
the crimes, whereof cognizance is here taken, must ! 
be only those committed against the laws of the Uni- 
ted States, or the laws of nations. The parties in ' 
civil suits at common law, and in chancery, must be 
on one side or the other, either a foreigner, or a citi- 
zen of another state, adverse to each other. One citi- 
zen of this state cannot, in this court, on the com- 
mon law, or chancery sides, sue another citizen of 
the state, though either be associated with a foreigner, 
or a citizen oi another state. One only of the parties 
must be a resident citizen of the state, in suits at com- 
mon law, or in chancery, in which citizens, or a citi- 
zen, is or are, a party or parties, in the cause. 

Appeals from or exceptions to the decisions or di- 
rections of this court, in points of law or in final 
decrees in admiralty or chancery cases, lie to the 
supreme court of the United States. It seems settled,; 
that the jury may take upon them to decide both the I 



FEDERAL COURTS. ST 

law and the fact, in criminal cases in this court, and 
in other courts of the United States. 

It is a prominent feature in the federal jurisdiction, 
that the courts are tribunals for national and exteri- 
torial questions ; as well as for individual contro- 
versies wherein foreigners, or citizens of other 
states than those in which suits are brought, are 
concei-ned. When suits are brought in state courts 
against foreigners, or citizens of other states, and 
especially where titles to lands held are in question 
under grants from different states, the causes may, in 
certain stages of them, be removed to a lederal court. 
The District Court is held by the district 
Judge alone. It has four stated terms, in each year 
— ^viz. on the third Mondays of the months of 
May, August, November, and February. Special 
sessions are held weekly; and oftener, when business 
requires. This court has four sides ; viz. 

1. Common Law, to a limited extent. 2. Crimi- 
nal, where punisliment corporal, or b^/ fines, or im- 
prisonment, does not exceed a certain limit. 3. Reve- 
nue or Exchequer, comprehending all fiscal subjects, 
cognizable under the laws of the United State? » 
within the district, in a judiciary tribunal. 4. Admi- 
ralty, This court has original and exclusive cog- 
nizance, with a few recent exceptions, of all revenue 
cases. It has also cognizance original and exclusive 
of all admiralty cases ; and it is as a portion of ad- 
miralty jurisdiction, a prize court. All suits, in reve- 
nue and admiralty cases, must be commenced, and 
in the first instance decided in this court. But ap- 
peals from final decisions lie 1o the circuit court. It 
, is a court of much and incessant business ; requiring 
! the constant attention of the judge. 
I Many causes here are weighty, both in amount, 
r principle, and intricacy. Causes of all descriptions, 
; must be first finally decided in this court, before they 
I 



S8 FEDERAL COURTS. 

can (if so intended) go up to superior courts ; unless, 
by consent, decrees pro forma, are obtained ; and 
this, to accelerate their progress, is sometimes done. 
The decree of the district court is final, and not sub- 
ject to revision in all cases of seamen's wages, 
where the demand does not exceed fifty dollars. 

Certain judges of the state may hear and deter- 
mine cases on Habeas Corpus, though within the fed- 
eral jurisdiction. Specified cases, such as treason, 
piracy, murder, are excepted ; and must be heard, 
by a federal judge ; or one of the state, designated. 

Magistrates of the state, may cause offenders 
against the criminal laws of the United States, to 
be apprehended ; and bind them over for trial, to 
the proper court of the United States. They may 
also hear in a summary way, on citations, contro- 
versies about mariners' wages. But the dissatisfied 
party, or in case of neglect or refusal to comply 
with the decision of a magistrate by the respondent, 
the complainant, on the certificate of the magistrate, 
may take out process from the District Court for its 
final decision. 

Clerk of the Circuit aud District Courts, David 
Caldwell. Office, 180 Chesnut street. 

Marshal of the district of Pennsylvania, John 
Smith. Office, 102 South Eighth street. 

The Circuit and District Courts sit in the district 
coi rt room, formerly occupied as the senate cham- 
ber of the United States, in the county court house, 
coiner of Chesnut and S'ixth streets. 

STATE LAW COURTS. 

1 . Civil CourW 

1. The Supreme court ; which possesses original 
jurisdiction in civil cases, where the matter in con- 



LAW COURTS. 99 

troversy is of the value of five hundred dollars and 
upwards ; appellate jurisdiction, by writ of error, to 
the court of common pleas, without limitation of 
amount ; and has a general superintending authority 
over all inferior jurisdictions. The regular terms are 
in December and March — and there are sittings, lor 
the trial of causes by jury before a single judge, 
from time to time as the court appoint. Courts of 
Nisi Prius are also held during thirty-three weeks, 
in every year, if the business of the court require. 
President, William Tilghman. Associates, Jasper 
Yates and H. H. Brackenridge. 

2. Common Pleas, 

By a law of March 1811, the original jurisdiction 
of this court, in all civil cases, is confined to contro- 
versies in which the sum does not exceed one hun- 
dred dollars ; actions for sums above that amount, 
are to be tried in the new " district court." The 
court of common pleas has an apellate jurisdiction, 
by appeal from the judgments of aldermen and jus- 
tices, and by certiorari; and is also invested by the 
legislature equally with the supreme courts, with the 
power of granting and proceeding on writs of parti- 
tion, at the suit of any tenant in common, joint tenant, 
or copartner. President, Jacob Rush. Assistants, John 
Geyer, J. Conrad. It is held four times in each year. 

3. District Court. 

At the last session of the legislature, a new court, 
called the " District Court for the city and county 
of Philadelphia" was established for the space of six 
years, composed of a president with the salary of 
two thousand dollars, and two associates of five hun- 
dred dollars ; any two of whom, in case of the ab- 



100 CRIMINAL COURTS. 

sence or inability of the other, shall have power to 
determine all civil pleas, and exercise the same pow- 
ers, as are now vested in the court of common pleas, 
provided that the sum in controversy shall exceed 
one hundred dollars. 

Alter the first Monday in June next, all causes de- 
pending in the common pleas, are to be transierred 
to this court, if the sum be above one hundred dollars. 

'No suit shall be removed to the district court by 
certiorari or habeas corpus ; but in all cases, the final 
judgment of the said district court may be affirmed 
or reversed on a writ of error from the supreme- 
court, in a similar manner, and subject to the same 
limitations and provisions, under which writs of errof^ 
are now issued from the supreme court of common 
pleas of the city and county oi Philadelphia. 

This district court is to hold four terms in each 
year, viz. in June, September, December, and 
March: if necessary, the judges may sit daily at least 
nine months in the year ; provided that the determi- 
nation of no cause or action should be delayed beyond 
the fourth term, if the parties be prepared lor trial 
at the times appointed by the court. If the judges 
delay a cause, in readiness for trial, it shall constitute 
a misdemeanor in office. The court is to be opened 
on the first iMonday in May, 1810; and the first re- 
turn day of writs is on the first Monday in June. The 
Prothonatory of the court of common pleas, performs 
the duties of Prothonatory in this court. 

President, Joseph Hemphill. Assistants, Jacob 
Som.mer, Anthony Simmons. 

4. The Orphan's Court ; composed of the judges 
of the Court of Common Pleas or any two of them, 
and possessing very extensive and important powers 
in relation to the appointment of guardians for mi- 
nors, the settlements, divisions, and distribution of 
intestate's f states, and the settlement of the accounts, 



CRIMINAL COURTS lOl 

and controul of the conduct of guardians, executory 
and administrators. 

It sits on the third Friday in every month. 

5. The Register's Court ; composed of the Register 
of Wills and any two judges of the Court ot Common 
Pleas, and exercising a jurisdiction, sometimes ori- 
ginal and sometimes by appeal from the register, 
in controversies about administrations, the probate 
of wills, &c. 

It is held from time to time as occasions arise. 

Aldermen and justices of the peace, who by se- 
veral acts of assembly have individually, a special 
jurisdiction (the former in the city and the latter in 
the county) in certain cases of debt or demand not 
exceeding one hundred dollars, and of damages for 
trespass not exceeding twenty dollars, subject as to 
the former, to an appeal to the Court of Common 
Pleas in all cases where the sum is above twenty 
dollars, and in some cases where it is less, and as to 
both, to a revision of their proceedings by certiorari,» 

Criminal Courts. 

1. Courts of Oyer and Terminer, and general 
jail delivery. The judges of the Supreme court, are 
by the constitution, justices of Oyer and Terminer 
in the several counties. And the judges of the com- 
mon Pleas (or any two of them, the president being 
one) in their respective counties, for the trial ot 
capital and other offenders. The courts are usually 
held alternately by the judges of the supreme court, 
and of the common pleas, about once in each year j 
and though their jurisdiction is general, they com- 
monly take cognizance of such offences only, as are 
either not cognizable by the quarter sessions, or 
being so, are attended in their perpetration, with 



1l>2 criminal courts. 

circumstances of extraordinary atrocity, requiring 
exemplary punishment. 

2. Court of Quarter Sessions, composed of the 
judges of the Court of Common Pleas, or any two 
of them ; possesses a jurisdiction over offences com- 
mitted within the county of Philadelphia, not perhaps 
definable by any general terms as to the subject of 
it, but exercised only in cases of misdemeanor, and 
of small felonies, which before the amelioration of 
our penal code were not capitally punishable. 

Petitions for new roads and streets are presented 
to this court, which appoints viewers to determine on 
the propriety of the measure. For streets in the city, 
twelve freeholders are appointed, who being sworn 
or affirmed, with the commissioners of the county, 
view the place proposed. If they or ten of them 
view the ground, and seven of the viewers agree 
that there is occasion for a street, they may proceed 
to lay out the same, and make report with a plot, to 
the next court, and if approved of, shall be recorded. 
No street is to exceed fifty feet in breadth. Dama- 
ges are to be estimated by the viewers, and the 
sum awarded is to be paid by the county treasurer: 
when paid, the mayor is to have the street opened 
under the direction of the court. 

It is held four times in each year. 

3 The Mayor's Court, composed of the mayoK, 
recorder and aldermen, or any four of them, (the 
mayor or recorder being one) possesses and ex- 
ercises the same jurisdiction over offences com- 
mitted within the city, as the quarter sessions in the 
county. 

It is usually held four times in a year, at intervals 
of about three months. 

4. The aldermen and justices of the peace, the 
former in the city, and the latter in the county, pos- 
sess individually, summary jurisdiction of certain 
petty offences created by acts of assembly, subject 
in some cases to an appeal. 



BAICKS. 103- 

1. Bank of North America. 

This is the oldest bank in the United States, and 
its establishment is connected with circumstances 
In the political history of the country, which every 
American ought to be acquainted with, and never 
forget. 

Every one knows, that to carry on the war for in- 
dependence. Congress were obliged to supply the 
want of a solid circulating medium, by the emission 
of paper money, and no funds having been provided 
for its redemption, it met with a natural fate, a gra- 
dual depreciation. The enthusiasm of liberty that fired 
the minds of many in that day, to a degree not sur- 
passed by any nation ; supported the credit of this 
substitute for the precious metals for a time, but at 
length it became of so little value, as to be inade- 
quate to the wants of our citizens, and in 1781, 
public credit was so low, that supplies could not be 
obtained to defray the necessary expenses of the 
government. The idea of a bank had been sometime 
before suggested by an American* then in England, 
and on the proposition of the minister of finance, 
R. Morris, a plan was adopted by a resolution of con- 
gress on the 26th of May, 1781. It was to be com- 
posed of a thousand shares, at four hundred dollars 
each ; but either from want of confidence in the pro- 
ject among the monied men, or from ignorance of 
the nature of the institution, only two hundred shares 
were subscribed for, and it was some time aiter the 
bank was iairly in operation, that the sum received up- 
on all subscriptions, amounted to seventy thousand 
dollars. In November 1782, the President and Direct- 
ors were elected ; and in January 1783, the bank was 
opened for business. At this time there remained in 
the treasury, about 300,000 dollars, being part of 

* Dr. Kuston. 



104 . BANKS. 

the money loaned by France to the United States. 
A considerable sum was due for past transactions, 
and congress had not required the States to pay any 
thing for the service of the coming year, before the 
first of April. The treasury was Sl,6(X\000 in arrears. 
Under these circumstances, about §250,000 of the 
public money were invested by INIr. jMorris, in the 
stock of the bank. It was principally upon this fund, 
that the operations of the institution were commen- 
ced ; and befoi-e the end of March, a loan from it of 
300,000 dollars was obtained, being the total amount 
of their specie or capital. This loan was shortly af- 
ter increased to 400,000, for such was the state of 
the revenue, that no more than 30,000 dollars had 
been paid into the public chest by the last of June. 
Considerable facilities were also obtained by dis- 
counting notes of individuals, and thereby anticipa- 
ting the receipt of public monev, and the army con- 
tractors for rations, were also aided with discounts 
upon public credit. The whole amount directly and 
indirectly obtained, exceeded one million of dollars : 
and Mr. Morris asserts that without this establish- 
ment, the business of the department of finance, 
could not have been performed.* A charter had 
been obtained from congress in the month of Decem- 
ber 1781, and in April 1782, an additional act of in- 
corporation was passed by the legislature of Pennsyl- 
vania. This however after a hard struggle was repeal- 
ed in 1785, owing to the prejudices of many country 
membci-s against the institution. Mr. Morris, who 
knew the incalculable benefit derived to the countiy, 
from the pecuniary loans of the bank, spoke feelingly 
and ably in its defence. A new charter Mas granted 
in 1787, and in the year 1799, it was continued for 
fourteen years after the 17th of March 1801. 

* Statement of the accounts of the United States of North 
America^ from 1781 to 1784. Philadelphia 1784 by R. Morris- 



BANKft. I'iS 

The capital is ^800/XX). Dividends in January 
and July ; and since 1804, have been at the rate of 
nine per cent. There are twelve directors. Banking 
house, No. 9;>, Chesnut street. Discount days, 
Mondays and Thursdays. Shut on Christmas, first 
of January, fourth of July, and Good-friday. 

President, John Mortf-in. Cashier, Henry Drinker, 
jun. 

2. Bank oj Pennsylvania^ 

Was incorporated March 30th, 1793, until 1813. 
The original capital consisted of two millions of 
dollars, divided into five thousand shares of 400 dol- 
lars each: permission was granted to increase them 
to 7500. The state was permitted to subscribe for 
2500 shares. In February 1810, the charter was 
extended for the term of twenty one years from the 
fourth of March 1810, upon condition, that the 
governor shall be allowed to subscribe at par on be- 
half of the Commonwealth for one thousand two 
hundred and fitty shares of the reserved shares of 
the Bank,* and also for the same number all at par 
at any time after the expiration of ten years from 
the fourth of March 1813. The stock of the bank is 
not to be transferrable to any person except citizens 
of the United States. 

The State of Pennsylvania has now Si, 509,000 ves- 
ted in this bank. Branches have been established at 
Lancaster, Pittsburg and Easton. 

There are twenty-five directors including the 
president ; Three are annually appointed by each 

• By this purchase the state gained §110,000, and may gain an 
5r|ual sum when they use the privilege ef the second iaveat* 

naen*^ 



106 BANKS 

house of the legislature ; the rest by the stockholderb. 
on the first Monday in February. 

President, Joseph Parker Norris. Cashier, Jona^ 
than Smith. 

Discount days, Wednesday and Saturday. 

Dividends, January and Jul}^. These have never 
been under eight per cent. 

Bank, in Second street, near Walnut. Shut, Christ- 
mas and fourth of July. 

Z.Baiik of Philadelphia, 

Was formed in 1803, with a capital of one mil- 
lion oi dollars ; and was incorporated in 1804, upon 
the followmg conditions. 1. Paying 135,000 dollars 
in cash. 2. Permitting the governor on the part of 
the state, to subscribe for three thousand shares, 
and to receive in payment ^300,000 of six per cent 
stock of the United States at par.* 3. To loan to 
the State when required, 100,000 dollars at five per 
cent for ten years. 4. The privilege of subscribing 200, 
000 dollars at the end of four years, and, at the end of I 
eight years to subscribe other ^200,000, on the part| 
of the State,both sums to be at par.f ! 

The capital was increased six hundred thousand' 
dollars by the act of incorporation. The capital isj 
now 2,000,000 dollars. The original charter was to| 
last ten years, but in 1806 it was extended to 1824. 



* It was then ten per cent, below par. 
\ As the practice of paying for charters to banking' companies 
marks an jera in kg-islation, it is proper to mention, that the en- 
ormous bonus paid by the bank of Philadelphia, and the other 
privileges granted to the state, became necessary, in conse-- 
quence of the violent opposition to the institution by the bank of 
Pennsylvania, and the olFer on the part of that bank of g200,000' 
to the state, provided no new bank should be incorporated. 



BANKS. 107 

The state now holds S523,000 of stock in this bank. 
Sixteen directors are appointed by the stockholders, 
on the second Monday of February, and three by 
each house of the legislature at every session. Stock- 
holders must reside in the United States. Branches 
oi this bank have been established at Washington^, 
Wilkesbarre, Columbia, and Harrisburg. Shares 
Si 00. 

Discount days, Monday, Wednesday, and Fri- 
day. 

Dividends, March and September. These have 
been \milormly eight per cent. 

President, George Clymer. Cashier, Quintin 
Campbell. 

Bank, corner of Fourth and Chesnut streets. 

4. Farmers a7id Mcchcmics Bank^ 

Was formed in the year ISO/, and incorporated in 
1809, until 1824. The capital was originally B750,000. 
It is now nine hundred thousand, and by the charter 
may be increased to 1,250,000. Seventy-five thou- 
sand dollars in stock, were paid for the charter. The 
debts of the corporation must not exceed double the 
amount of the capital; one tenth part of the capital 
for a year, shall be loaned to the farmers of this state 
if applied for, on sufficient security by bond, mort- 
gage, or note. There are thirteen directors, a ma- 
jority of whom shall be farmers, mechanics or ma- 
nufacturers. No bill for less than five dollars may 
be issued by this or any other bank in Philadelphia. 
Shares fifty dollars. 

Dividends, January and July. These have been, 
the first year, eight per cent ; and in 1810, were nine 
per cent. 

Discount days, Tuesday and Friday. 

President, Joseph Tagert. Cashier, Joseph Clay. 



lt)8 INSmiANCE OFFICES. 

Bank, Chesnut street near Third street. Shut or 
Christmas, first of January, Good Friday, and iourtl 
of July. 

Since the abolition of the national bank, the de 
posits of the United States are made in this bank, 
and in the bank of Pennsylvania. The State owns 
stock to the amount of 85,000 dollars in this bank. 

Discounts at all the banks are made for sixty days 
on endorsed notes, at an interest of one half per cent 
for thirty days. Notes are presented the day before 
discount days. If some plan were adopted to accom- 
modate those who possess good notes, at three, iour, 
or six months ; or those who have property that cannot 
be immediately converted into cash, trade would 
not only be greatly benefitted, some of the evils of 
banking lessened, but above all, the practice of usury, 
which prevails to a disgraceful degree in most of i 
our commercial towns, would be much diminished. 

Insurance Offices. 

An Insurance office for shipping was opened in 
Philadelphia, so early as 1720, by John Copson. 
Joseph Sanders afterwards kept an office for the 
same purpose. In 1762 William Bradford printer, 
opened a marine insurance office in company with 
an able accountant, John Kydd, and continued it until 
about the revolution. Others succeeded in the same 
line during the war, and after the peace until the 
year 1792, when a company that had associated upon 
a tontine principle, agreed to employ their capital in 
insuring property. They obtained a charter under 
" the name of the " Insurance Company of North 
America," in 1794. 

Their capital is ^600,000. Shares SlO. 

The operations of this company were confined for 
some time to marine insurances ; but for several 



INSURANCE offices: 109 

years past they also insure houses from loss by fire ; 
and ships, while building. 

There are fifteen directors. 

President, John Inskeep. Office, 40 Walnut street. 

Insurance Company of Pennsylvania. 

The Insurance Company of Pennsylvania, was in- 
corporated in 1794, to 1815, with a capital of 500,000 
dollars, in shares of 400 dollars. There are thirteen 
directors : stockholdei's must be citizens of the Uni- 
ted States to be eligible as a director. To vote by 
proxy, stockholders must be actually residents 
within the United States ; and no stockholders may 
have more than twenty-four votes. Once in two 
years, the directors shall lay before the stockholders, 
at a general meeting, an exact statement of the af- 
fairs of the company. The real estate is confined to 
such buildmgs as shall be requisite for the accom- 
modation of the company, in relation to its business, 
and such as shall have been mortgaged to it by way 
of security, or purchased upon judgments obtained 
for such debts. 

President, James S. Cox. Office, corner of Dock 
and Wahiut streets. 

Dividends, February and August. 

Union Insurance Coinpany, 

Incorporated 1804, until 1815. Thirteen directors, 
chosen on the second Moiiday in February. 

Capilul, S500,000. Shares," BlOO. 

The clear yearly income of the real estate, is not 
to exceed SlO,odo. None but resident citizens of 
Pennsylvania shall vote as proxies. No stockholder 
shall have more than twenty votes : and, to be a di- 



110 IXSURANCE OFFICES. 

rector, nuist hold ten shares. ^50,000 may be loan- 
ed to the state, or its funds may be invested in real 
estate Avithin the city or comity of Philadelphia. 

OfHce, 45 Walnut street. 

President, George Latimer. Dividend, February 
and August. 

Ph«mx Insurance Company^ 

Was incorporated in 1804, until 1815. 

Capital, S600,000. Shares, 8100 each. 

There are nine Directors. One half of the capital 
consists of shares in the stock of the Insurance 
Company of North America. Capital invested in 
bonds, must be secured by mortgages or sufficient 
real estates within the city and county of Philadel- 
phia : a part of the capital not exceeding S60,000, 
may, with the approbation of a majority of the stock- 
holders convened for that pm^pose, be loaned to the 
state of Pennsylvania. They may also sell all or any 
part of the stock of the said incorporated insurance 
company, which may be transferred as aloresaid, 
and invest the proceeds thereof in the manner here- 
in directed. The real estate must not exceed 
Bl0,000 clear annual income. Stated meetings of the 
directors are to be held once in every fortnight. 
Stockholders are not allowed more than fifteen votes 
each. No stockholder indebted to the company shall 
make transfers, or receive dividends, till the debt is 
paid or secured. A general meeting of stockholders 
is to be held on the second Monday of December. 

Proxies must be held by a citizen of Pennsylvania. 

Office, 96 south Second street. 

President, David Lewis. Dividend, June and De- 
cember. 



INSURANCE OFFICES. Ill 

Dt'laxvave Insurance Compani/y 

Was incorporated March 1804, to 1815, with a 
capital of §500,000 divided into shares of BlOO 
each, payable, one fifth in bank stock, and four fifths 
i in specie. S50,000 may be loaned to the state. 
I Stockholders not entitled to more than fifteen votes. 
Directors must be resident citizens and holders of 
ten shares. There are fifteen directors, chosen the 
second Monday in December. 

Office, 42 Walnut street. 

President, Thomas Fitziuions. Dividend, June 
and December. 

Philadelphia Insurance Company^ 

Was Incorporated in March 1804, to 1815, with a 
capital of ^400,000. Shares, glOO each. Thirteen 
\ directors, each of whom must hold ten shares. No 
I stockholder indebted to the company shall receive 
I or transfer a dividend, till the debt be paid or secured. 
I No corporation except the company, shall directly 
j or indirectly hold any share in the capital stock. 
;j Election on the first Monday in January. Income of 
I real estate not to exceed SI0,000. Stockholders not 
\ entitled to more than twenty votes. 

Office S. W. corner of Walnut and Second streets. 

President, Samuel W. Fisher. Dividend, June and 
December. 

United States Insurance Compatnj, 

Capital, §400,000. Shares, §50. 

I Incorporated, March 1810, until January 1827. 

I The yearly income of the real estate of the compa- 
ny, must not exceed four thousand dollars. Mem- 
bers must be citizens, and to be a director must hold 



m INSURANCE Offices. 

five shares. No stockholder shall have more than 
twenty-five votes. There are thirteen directors. 

Office, 49 Walnut street. 

President, Israel Pleasants. 

Dividends, June and December. 

Marine Insurance Company, 

Incorporated 1809, until 1827. Capital ^300,000: 
djvided into 3000 shares, of ^100 each. 

Managed by thirteen directors. 

The yearly income is not to exceed 6000 dollars. 
Capital may be loaned to the state in any sum not 
exceeding ^50,000 ; or on real estate, within the 
state. Stockholders and directors must be citizens 
of the state, and no one entitled to more than fiity 
votes. A general meeting to take place of the stock- 
holders, on the second Monday in January of every 
year ; they may make rules for governing the affairs 
of the company. Directors must own ten shares. 

Dividends, first Mondays of January and July. 

President, John Leamy. Office, 47 Walnut street., 

Lancaster and Susqueha7inah Insurance Company, 

A company, formed originally at Lancaster, with 
a capital of SlOO,000 and with liberty to increase 
it to three hundred thousand dollars, was incorpora- 
ted in 1808, to 1816, upon the same general principles 
as the preceeding, and with like powers ; and have 
established an offxe or branch in Philadelphia. 

The income of real estate cannot exceed S3,000. 
All disputes with this company must be submitted 
to arbitration, if required by the claimants for losses. 

Office, N. W\ corner of Second and Walnut streets. 

Agents, Joseph Smith, J. Carson. 



INSURANCE OFFICES. IIS 

The general principles adopted for the regulation 
of the different companies, are very nearly the same. 
The funds not required to pay demands against thq 
company, shall be vested in the public debt of the 
United States, or in the stock of incorporated com- 
panies of the state, or United States, or on security 
of real estatft within the city and county of Phila- 
delphia. The directors divide themselves into weeklx- 
committees, who assist the presidents in transactinj^ 
the business of the companies. In case the capital shall 
be lessened by losses, no dividend is to be made un- 
til a sum equal to the loss, be added to the capital,* 
under penalty of holding the directors account- 
able. They may make all kind of marine insuran- 
ces, insurance on the inland transportation of goods, 
against fire, and on lives ; and lend money upon bot- 
tomry and respondentia. At the annual meetings of 
the companies, a statement of their affairs is to be 
laid before the stockholders. At these meetings ge- 
neral rules for the government of the aifairs of the 
company may be made. Stock must be held three 
months at least, before an election, to entitle a per- 
son to a vote. 

Fire Insurance Offices. 

. The oldest Insurance Office against fire, solely, is 
*' the Philadelphia Contributionship," having been for- 
med in the year 1752, and incorporated in 1754. Its 
terras were, as declared, "most equal," and apart from 
all views of private or separate gain. There are twelve 
.directors and a treasurer annually chosen ; the latter 
gives security. The rules for the regulation of the 
conduct of the directors in the management of their 

* Insurance Company of Nonh America and Tennsjlvania ex- 
cepted. 

K 2 



114 INSURANCE OFFICES. 

trust, and the principles of the association were con- 
tained in a " deed oF settlement," which was altered 
in 1810, and generally are as follows. 

All persons insuring in, and with the society, shall 
be deemed members of the same during the continu- 
ance of their interest in their respective policies, 
which are to continue for an unlimited period. The 
directcjrs are empowered to lay out money in stock 
of any incorporated company of the state or city, or 
to lend it on mortgage ; but restrained from issuing 
any notes in the nature of bank notes; to become en- 
dorsers in their corporate capacity, or irom making 
discounts or receiving deposits. Caleb Carmalt is the 
clerk of this company, and the office is kept at his 
house, 99 High street. 

Mutual Fire Assurance Company, 

Office, Pine street wharf. J. B. Palmer, secretary. 

This association was formed in 1784, in conse- 
quence of the old contributionsh'p company refusing 
to insure houses before which trees grew. 

All persons insuring in this society are deemed 
members thereof, so long as they remain insured. 

By virtue of a deed of settlement, which was finally 
altered and amended in 1801, the direction of the 
affairs of the company is intrusted to thirteen direc- 
tors, who act without pay. The policies issued by the 
trustees, continue in force so long as the premium 
shall remain with the society ; and any member may 
within six months after the expiration of every seven 
years, reclaim and receive his deposit money, without 
any deduction except the fees of office, unless the 
stock of the company has been lessened by losses ; 
;n which case a just proportion of all such losses as 
the interest money was insufficient to satisfy, shall 
be deducted. In all cases of sale where the policy is 



INSXJRANCE OFFICES. 115 

not transferred, the deposit money may be withdrawn, 
if applied for within two months after such sale, but 
not otherwise ; deducting five per centum, and sub- 
ject to deduction in case of losses. If the loss shall 
exceed the company's whole stock, the several suf- 
ferers insured in this office, are to receive a just pro- 
portionable dividend of the whole stock, according to 
the sums by them insured. 

Besides the deposit or premium of insurance, the 
insured pay for the policy, and the services incident 
thereto, at the rate of thirty cents for every hundred 
dollars insured, and fifty cents for every entry of 
transfer. Transfers must be entered on the books, 
within four weeks after assignments have been made. 
In case of loss bv fire, the trustees are to view 
and inquire into the same. If it be partial, the trus- 
tees may repair it, or pay the estimated damage, 
provided such estimate is within the sum insured on 
: that part of the building : but if it exceed, the sum 
' insured only shall be paid. In case of total loss, they 
i either rebuild the house, or pay the sum insured 
' thereon, in three months after the loss. The policy 
then becomes void. Additional premiums are required 
for insurance upon all houses having trees planted 
1 before them, or in the yards near the house. Trees 
■ planted after insurance has been effected, must be re- 
ported to the office. Damages from gunpowder being 
stored in the house, or from breaming ships, make an 
insurance void. 

American Fire Insurance Compani/^ 

Was incorporated in 1811, by the legislature of 
:i Pennsylvania. The business of the company is con- 
fined to objects on land, or vessels in port with their 
cargoes on board. The capital is 500,000 dollars, 



116 AlARKETS. 

divided into five thousand shares. The clear yearh^ 
income of the corporation upon the real estate 
which they are authorized to hold, shall not exceed 
10,000 dollars. There are nine directors. Stock- 
holders are required to be citizens. Qne per cent 
annually on the amount of the capital stock, is to 
be paid into the treasury of the commonwealth, by 
the company, when more than nine per cent per an- 
num, on their capital is divided. 

Office, 101 Chesnut street. President, William 
Jones. Secretary, Edward Fox. 

Phcenix Company of London. 

The Phoenix company of London opened an office 
for insurance from fire, in Philadelphia, and having 
done much business, a law was passed in 1810, pro- 
hibiting any person or persons, not citizens of the 
United States, from insuring property in any case 
within the state, against loss by fire, sea, or upon land 
transportation of goods. A penalty of S5,000 is 
forfeited by any person acting as agent for such for- 
eign insurers. 

Markets Provisions. 

In the early settlement of the city, the Market 
was chiefly confined to the hill in Front street, cor- 
ner of High street ; where a house or shed was 
erected, having a bell, which was rung when any one 
came from the country with produce for sale. After- 
wards, a house for the exclusive sale of fish was 
built by subscription, on an arch over the creek : 
which emptied into the Delaware, a short distance 
above Spruce street : here also a bell was fixed, and 
rung when fish was brought for sale. The fish Mar- 
ket is now confined to Market or High street hill. 



MARKETS. 117 

The first Market house built in High street, was 
a range of wooden stalls from Front to Second street. 
In the year 1720, the first part of the market in 
High street west of the old court house was built ; 
the money for which was advanced by the Mayor. 
In proportion as the population of town and coun- 
try increased, the market house was extended un- 
itil at present it reaches from Front to Sixth sti'eet ; 
a distance of five squares. The last addition from 
Fourth to Sixth streets, was made in 1810. The 
increased projection of the eaves over the pillars in 
this last part, is a great improvement : as it increases 
accommodation and protection to the country people, 
and admits of a more advantageous display of their 
various productions. 

In the new parts, the upright posts and cross 
pieces having hooks to suspend the provisions on, are 
required to be regularly taken down after market 
hours, and packed away under the stalls: a very pro- 
per regulation and strictly enforced. 

By the law authorizing the continuation of the 
market, it is provided that the western half of the 
stalls is to be let to the people of the country, and 
to no others : and the other hali to butchers; and that 
one hall ot the stalls that may be erected elsewhere, 
shall also be let to such persons from the country, 
as send their produce to market. The rent of each 
stall is fixed at twenty dollars. 

The market house in south Second street, was built 
for the accommodation ot the citizens in the southern 
part of the city, and has been enlarged from time to 
time until it now extends from Pine to Cedar street, 
a distance of about 440 feet. At each end a room 
is erected, ior the meetings ot the commissioners, 
fire companies, and of the citizens. Market houses 
are also built in Callowhill street, and in north Se- 
cond street above Coats's street. The pillars of all 



118 MARKETS. 

the markets are of brick, and openings are left at 
proper distances to admit a passage between them. 
The footpaths are paved with the same material. 
Their breadth in the clear is about thirteen feet. 

As mentioned already, the hill on Market street 
is allotted for the sale of fish. This traffic, except in 
the case of those who bring fish preserved in ice, 
in waggons from the sea, is carried on chiefly by woe- 
men, many of whose husbands are employed in catch- 
ing the fish : no shelter is provided for this useful 
class of the community, who of course are exposed 
to the elements, and often suffer much personally, 
and sustain loss from the rapid putrefaction of their 
fish, when exposed to the sun. Moveable sheds simi- 
lar to those erected for the sellers of vegetables 
west of Second street, and the south side of Market 
street, would be sufficiently convenient, until a more 
permanent covering could be erected. It is much to 
be wished, that this measure may demand the prompt 
attention of our city councils. 

The days appointed by law for holding markets 
in High street, are Wednesday and Saturday; and 
Tuesday and Friday, for the Market in south Se- 
cond street. 

From the first of April to the first of September, 
the market continues from daylight until two o'clockj 
from September to April, it ends at three o'clock. 
Provisions are however sold every day, particularly 
in the Autumn, Winter, and in the early Spring 
months, during which time the market is seldom 
empty. Milk is permitted to be sold on Sunday mor- 
ning till nine o'clock, but whey is absurdly prohibited, 
although useful as a medicine. 

To prevent danger from the passage of carts, hor- 
ses, &c. during market hours, chains are fixed across 
the streets and allies to the north and south, east 
and west of the markets in High street, a little af- 



MARKETS. il9 

tfer sunrise. During the Summer they remain until 
nine, and in Winter until ten o'clock. AH persons are 
obliged to remove their carts without the limits of 
the chains, under a penalty. Different parts of the 
market are appropriated for venders of butter, of 
salt fish, of Jersey produce, of other country pro- 
duce, of American earthen ware, cooper's ware, truit 
and garden seeds, of butcher's meat, and of all sorts of 
herbs, roots and meal. The venders of the three latter 
articles, stand under the eaves of the markets. Move- 
able stalls with sheds are also placed on the evening- 
preceding market days, on the south side of Mar- 
ket street, for the accommodation of the sellers of ve- 
getables ; these are removed and stowed away after 
market hours, under the arches of the market house. 
No butcher is allowed to kill any beast, nor are live 
cattle to be sold or driven, nor is any cyder, beer or 
spirituous liquors to be sold by retail, nor any wheel- 
barrow brought within the market house or shambles 
during market hours. The measures and weights 
used in the market, are to be duly regulated and 
stamped by the proper officer. Steel yards are very 
properly prohibited,* by reason of the great decep- 
tion which m.ay be practised with them. For disobe- 
dience of this regulation, and for using false balan- 
ces, the penalty is five dollars. Hucksters or those 
who monopolize poultry, nuts, fruits, and particu- 
lar vegetables, by an early attendance at market, are 
prohibited from purchasing with an intent to sell, 
provision or fruit of any kind within the limits of 
the market, before ten o'clock in the morning of any 
market day, and from exposing them to sale on any 
day. The penalty for either purchasing or selling, is 
three dollars for every offence. This excellent regu- 

* It is to be regretted that they are not banished the stale. 



12D MARKETS. 

lation is evaded in part by the sale of provisions 
owt of cellars of houses opposite to the market ; but 
the magnitude of the evil is greatly diminished, from 
the impossibility of finding cellai's to rent equal in 
number to the demand. 

No grous,* partridge,! or pheasant,:}: are permitted 
to be sold between the first day of March and the first 
of September ; nor any woodcock,^ between the first of 
March and first of July, under penalty of forfeiting 
such game. 

The variety offish brought to the market of Phi- 
ladelphia, is considerable. Early in the spring, large 
sunfish are caught in the bay, and are succeeded by 
herrings, shad, roach, four kinds of catfish, four kinds 
of perch, rock, lamprey eel, common eel, pike, suck- 
er, sturgeon, gar fish. These are river fish, and ap- 
pear in the order mentioned. From the sea come, cod, 
seabass, black-fish, sheeps-head, spanish-mackarel, 
haddock, pollock, mullet, holibut, flounder, sole, 
plaice, skait, porgey, tomcod, and others. 

Shell-fish' — Oysters, (several kinds,) clams, lobster, 
crab. The two first are taken in Delaware bay. 

Amphibious — Snapping-turtle, terrapin: both ex- 
cellent. 

In Summer, all the sea fish, except cod, are brought 
by land, in ice, as are also crabs and lobsters, from the 
coast of Monmouth county. New Jersey, a distance 
of eighty miles. Oysters abound all the year, and 
are sold by the hundred. 

Cod fish first made their appearance on the coast 
off the Delaware, about the year 1790, and have gra- 
dually progressed southward. The shad caught in 
the river Schuylkill, are generally esteemed superi- 
or in flavour, and more delicate than those caught ij 
the Delaware ; ov/ing probably, to their derivii 

* Tetrao Cupido Lin. f Tetrao Virginianus Lin. + Tetra« 
XJmbellus or T -. Timpanlstes of Bartram. § Scolopax — ? 



MARKETS. 121 

nourishment from the gravelly bottom of the for- 
mer river : and hence they bear a higher price. The 
situation of the fishing place in the Delavvai-e, like- 
wise influences the size and flavour of shad ; it is 
notorious, that those caught off" Petty's island , on 
the Jersey shore, above the city, where the water is 
deep; are much larger and fatter, than those caught 
in more shallow water, whether the bottom be mud, 
sand, or gravel. 

By a law passed in March, 1810, at the request of 
the legislature of New Jersey, the time for catching 
shad in the Delaware, within the state limits, between 
the foot of the falls at Trenton, and opposite the 
mouth of the river Lehigh, and the station point, or 
north west corner of this state, was extended until 
the 20th of June in every year. 

The quantity of provisions, animal and vegetable, 
brought to market during the year, is immense, and 
much beyond the wants of the inhabitants. In sum- 
mer, great losses are sometimes sustained, especially 
in the various articles of animal food, which from the 
heat of the weather, soon spoil.* The particular 
number of beasts annually killed in the city, or 
sold in the markets, cannot he ascertained, but it 
may be safely asserted, that in no city in the world, 
is more animal food consumed, in proportion to its 
size, than in Philadelphia. It constitutes the substan- 
tial part of the dinner of every adult in the city, and 
most labourers and mechanics eat a ponion of it at 
breakfast and supper. Much of the land, within five 
or six miles north and south of the city, is devoted to 
the purpose of kitchen gardens, and kept in the highest 
state of cultivation. Two crops are very commonly 
produced on the same ground in one season. Th«^ 

* When spoiled, they are th!•o^yn Into pi^ s out of th.- rltv 



122 inicnisioxs. 

neighbouring state of New Jersey, contributes to the 
abundant supply of those species of fruit and vegeta- 
bles, to which its light soil is particularly adapted ; 
such as the grateful musk-melon, water-melon, sweet 
potatoe, cucumbers and peaches, immense quantities 
of which are brought in boats across the Delaware. 
The superiority of the butter of Philadelphia, and 
the great neatness with Avliich it is prepared for mar- 
ket, are generally acknowledged. One fourth of a 
dollar may be said to be the average price of a pound 
of butter, throughout the year. 

The task of attending to the e2:ecution of the regu- 
lations of the markets, is attached to the duties of the 
clerks of the market, who are annu3.Uy appointed by 
the mayor. The clerks are also authorized to prevent 
all unsound provisions from being offered for sale, 
and to examine into the accuracy of the weights of 
butter,lard and sausages, which are sold by the pound; 
and to try all scales, weights and measures used in the 
market ; decide all disputes which may arise in the 
market, between buyer and seller ; to collect the rents 
of the stalls, and to cause all the pavements under 
the shambles to be swept, and the dirt removed into 
the open street. This dirt the city commissioners are 
required to have removed twice a week. Seizures are 
often made of butter, lard, and sausages, for being de- 
ficient in weight. Half of the quantity seized, is sent 
to the alms-house, and the other hall is the perqui- 
site of the clerks. This regulation has had the most 
happy effect in diminishing imposition, from false 
weight. 

The pay of the clerks of the market is two dollars 
fifty cents, in every hundred dollars of the rents of 
stalls, collected by them, and fifty dollars extra. They 
must give bond, with sureties, in the sum of two thou- 
siuid dollars, for the due performance of their duties. 



CONSTABLES ELFXTIOXS- 12> 

Preservation of the Peace, 

'I'here are fourteen constables, one for each ward ; 
and until the present year, one high constable, who 
is required to walk through the streets daily with 
his mace in his hand, and examine all vagrant and dis- 
orderly persons, and upon refusal to give him an ac- 
count of their residence and employment, or not 
giving a satisfactory account, to carry such persons 
before the mayor or an alderman to be dealt with 
accorduig to law : to give notice of all nuisances 
or obstructions in the streets to the city commission- 
ers, or mayor ; and of offences committed against 
the laws in force, and of the names of the offenders 
and witnesses, and generally, to superintend the 
execution of, and cause obedience to the ordinances 
in force, and to do all such things as the councils^ 
mayor, or recorder shall direct, touching the order, 
regulation and policy of the city. By a recent ordi- 
nance, an additional high constable Is to be appoint- 
ed by the Mayor. The salary of each is 700 dollars. 

ConstobW s Elections. 

By a law passed the 30th Januaiy 1810, the elec- 
tors in each ward are to meet at such place as the con- 
stable for the time being shall appoint, on the third 
Friday in March, and elect by ballot, two persons, one 
of whom shall be appointed constable for the said ward 
for the ensuing year. The constable for the time is re- 
quired to give six days previous notice in two news- 
papers, of the time and place where such election 
is to be held. 

The voters present choose three persons as judges 
of the election, who are to be sworn or affirmed to 
do justice, and on the third day thereafter, to make 
a return of the two names highest in vote, to the 
mayor of the city, who appoints one of them. Con- 



124 WATCHING AXD LIGHTING. 

stables are bound to give two freeholders as securi- 
ties, in the sum of 2000 dollars, for the faithful dis- 
charge of their duty. 

In case of vacancies, the mayor appoints a succes- 
sor until the next election. 

City Cojnjnissioners. 

Four citizens are appointed in the month of Jan- 
uary, annually, by the mayor, under the title of the 
city commissioners, who have a general superinten- 
dence of the city property, the assessing of the taxes 
laid by the corporation, appointing the collectors 
thereof, taking securities for the faithful performance 
of their duty, and settling their duplicates. They 
also appoint the watchmen, and oversee the business 
of lighting, paving, and cleansing the city : they let 
the fixed and moveable stalls, and stands, in the mar- 
kets : regulate, limit and direct the depth of wells 
and sinks : appoint stands for draymen and hackney 
coachmen, and regulate the erection of lime houses, 
and the placing of stone and scantling in the streets 
for building. Their pay is 750 dollars each, and are 
allowed a clerk. They sit in the old court-house. 

Watching and Lighting. 

There are thirty-two watchmen who cry the hour, 
and six who visit the boxes of the others, to insure 
a punctual performance of their duty ; the whole are 
under the direction of the captain of the watch, who 
attends at the old court house in Second street, every 
night, to receive the vagrants, rioters or thieves, who 
may be taken up by the watchmen; and to take care of 
the oil, wick, &c. of which he must render an account 
to the city commissioners, monthly, of the quantity 
received, expended and on hand. There are 1132 
lamps in the city, and new ones are annually erecting, 



iUEL— PUBLIC LAi^DLNGS. J25 

as the city improvements extend. The pay of the 
watchmen is 14 dollars per month, besides 27 cents 
extra wages for each lamp under their care : they 
also have the gratuity of a great coat. They ar<^. 
subject to fines for neglect of duty. The cost ol 
lighting and watching Philadelphia in 1809, amount- 
ed to 19,253 dollars 72> cents. 

Cleansing the Streets. 

To accomplish this, the city is divided into dis- 
tricts, and one commissioner attends to the cleanliness 
of a district. The street dirt is scraped by scavengers 
into small heaps, and men follow with carts, to take it 
away to the commons, where it is deposited in heaps, 
and disposed of occasionally by auction, for manure. 
In summer, the excellent New York regulation ought 
to be adopted, of taking away daily in a cart, all 
offall matters of the kitchen, which are placed for 
this purpose, in a barrel or tub, before the door. 

Fuel — Wood Carders — Public Landings, 

The principal article of house fuel in Philadelphia, 
is hickory, oak or maple wood. Pine wood is used 
chiefly by brick burners and bakers. Coal is only 
partially used in dwelling houses, but would be in 
general demand for counting rooms, offices and cham- 
bers, owing to the danger from fire being thereby 
lessened, if it could be afforded at a rate as cheap 
as wood. The time is anxiously looked forward to, 
when the inexhaustible bodies of excellent coal with 
which our western counties, and Wayne county 
abound, will be brought down to Philadelphia, by 
means of that great chain of inland navigation, 
which has been so long in contemplation, and by 



X26 REGULATION OF WOOD TOR FUEL. 

During the continuance of the navigation in the 
Delaware, fire wood is brought in shallops from 
both sides of the river, above and below the city ; 
but in winter, when from the obstruction by ice, the 
supply in that way is cut off, wood is brought by 
land. In all cases, it is measured by sworn corders, 
at certain fixed rates. The stand for cord wood 
brought by land to the city, is the upper end of High 
street, between Eighth street and the center square. 

The measure of wood is the cord, of eight feet 
in length, by four in height, and four in breadth. 

No wood is permitted to be sold as cord wood, 
the length of which shall not be at least three feet 
ten inches, including haH the kerf: and when the 
average length of the wood shall fall short of four 
feet, including half the kerf, six inches must be add- 
ed to the standing length of the cord. 

Reasonable and fair allowance is to be made 
for the loss sustained by crooked wood : the straight 
wood is to be packed in the lower part of the pile, 
and the crooked wood on the upper pai"t. Every 
cord of wood pays eight cents whariage, and six cents 
for cordage; the former is to be paid by the seller, the 
latter by the purchaser. 

Wood landed upon private wharves, is to be in- 
spected and measured by the nearest corder, for 
which, eight cents are to be paid by the purchaser. 
Corders are to sell wood landed on the public land- 
ings, if so required by the owner of it, without ad- 
ditional fee. 

No person is permitted to buy w^ood in the city to 
sell again, from September to March inclusive, un- 
der a penalty of two dollars for every cord sold ; 
sawyers are forbidden to buy wood for any person 
©r use, other than their own. All craft lying at a public 
wharf, pay one dollar per day for every day they ex- 
ceed forty-eight hours, unless wcRther-bound. Ves- 



FUBLIC LANDINGS. 12^ 

sels loaded with boards, plank, scantling, hay »r sand^ 
are excepted. Each corder receives an annual salary 
of S600. Deputies receive three hundred dollars. 
All are removable at the discretion of the mayor, 
for neglect of duty. Carters are to have a sufficient 
number of hewn standards for preventing the wood 
from falling off the cart, and marked with the initial 
letters oi their christian and sirnames, on the out- 
er sides of the said standards, under the penalty of 
five shillings. Carters not delivering all the wood 
they undertake to hawl, shall forfeit two shillings for 
every stick so detained, to the owner or purchaser 
thereof. 

Other articles, besides wood, as stone, sand, shin- 
gles, boards, stav^es, rails, &c. pay wharfage. 

Previously to the year 1807, the public landings 
were rented to the highest bidder; but in that year 
a law was passed, authorising the mayor to appoint 
corders of wood, with salaries, who are to give bond 
with sureties ; and to take oath for the faithful per- 
formance of the duties enjoined upon them : they are 
to pay, weekly, the monies they receive for wharf- 
age or cording, into the hands of the city treasurer ; 
and to furnish a list of the articles landed, and by 
%viiom : and the treasurer is required, once in every 
mondi, to furnish the mayor with a statement of the 
amount of monies paid in by the several corders, to- 
gether with the original lists. 

In the year 1807, the wharves produced !S7,820 95 
,/ 1808, „ 10,203 114 

„ 1809, „ 10,767 62^ 

„ 1810, „ 10,840 474 

„ 1 806, they rented for 4,884 

Adding the present salaries 3,900 



S8,784, 



22S SALE OF BREAD. 

leaves a balance so great, as to shew the propi-iety 
of the alteration of the law respecting the mode of 
collecting this branch of revenue. 

In 1720, as appears by books of council, the pub- 
lic wharves on the Delaware, at the ends of Walnut 
and Chesnut streets, were rented at three pounds ; 
that of High street for six. His honour the mayor, 
took the two first, and aldermen Master's and Red-; 
man, joined in the contract for the last. The rents 
were to be in half yearly payments. 

Cords. 

In 1808, were landed, . 66,391 

1809, .... 69,570^ 

1810, .... 68,691-J 

Much of the wood, consumed in the city, is purcha- 
aed at the public wharves in Southwark and the 
Northern Liberties, and they being rented, no account 
is kept of the quantity there sold : nor is any account 
kept of that sold at the stand in High street, du-i 
ring winter; nor of that landed on Schuylkill, for the 
supply of the western parts or the city: but the quanti- 
ty from those quarters, may be fairly rated at two 
thirds of that landed at the public city wharves, frora 
which data, an estimate may be formed of the whole 
amount consumed in the city in one year. 

Sale of Bread. 

A law was passed in 1775, to regulate the assize 
of bread; and after the incorporation of Philadelphia, 
it was renewed for a short time. The consideratiot 
of the hardship, if not injustice of setting a price up.« 
on the labour of one class of citizens only, and thd 
great difficulty of establishing a principle which would 
secure one part of the community from impositioi 
without abridging the rights of another part, op« 






SALE OF BREAD. 129 

ted with the legiskiture to leave the affair to the citi- 
zens themselves. 

In 1797 an act was passed, requiring that all loaf 
bread made for sale within this commonwealth, shall 
be sold by the pound avoirdupois, and that every ba- 
ker or other person, offering the same for sale, shall 
keep at his or her house, or at such other place at 
which they shall offer bread for sale, sufficient scales 
and weights, for weighing the same. The penalty for 
offending against this act is ten dollars ; and the clerks 
of the markets are required to discover and prose- 
cute the offenders. The act extends to Southwark 
and the Northern Liberties. The citizens, however, 
have been so long accustomed to take bread of such 
weights as the bakers have chosen to make their loaves, 
that the regulation of selling by weight does not pro- 
duce the good intended. They cannot spend time in 
daily going round to the different bakers shops to 
compare the weights of their loaves with the prices; 
and it is clear that, unless they do so, they may be 
•very frequently forced to take bread of a size unrea- 
sonably small. The price of bread ought always to 
bear a proportion to the price of flour ; while at the 
same time it is but just that the baker should be al- 
lowed a reasonable profit. In New York their pro- 
fit has been fixed at three dollars and sixty-six cents 
per barrel, of one hundred and ninety-six pounds. *= 



* In fixing the assize, the chamberlain is required to estimate 
a barrel of flour, to produce 4,032 oz. of bread, (as it has been 
'i found that such is the product,) and in order to ascertain the 
)i -weight of a shilling' loaf, (twelve cents and a half,) of the respec- 
li live qualities of flour, the number of ounces is divided by a num- 
i ber equal to the number of shillings a barrel of flour of such a 
'; quality, may be worth at the time: and g3 66, (or 28s. New York 
\ currency,) added thereto, being the profit allowed the baker, the 
i quotient will be the number of ounces a shilling loaf must weigh. 
AVhenever the fractionid parts are less than half an ounce, they 
'f| are taken oft' the loaf; and when half an ounce or more, an ounce 
'\\ XB added to it. 



130 STORING OF GUN POWDER. 

Protection of Mechanics and Labourers. 

By a law passed by the legislature, in 1809, all 
dwellings and other houses to be erected in Phila- 
delphia, are subjected to the payment of debts con- 
tracted in building the same ; and where the house 
will not sell for sufficient to discharge all the demands, 
they are to be averaged and paid proportionably. But 
such debts are not to remain a lien longer than two 
3^ears from the commencement of the building, unless 
an action be instituted for the recovery of the same, 
within six months after performing the work, or fur- 
nishing the materials for the house. 

Storing of Gun Powder. 

The danger arising from the introduction of a 
great quantity of this dangerous article within the 
city, early demanded the attention of the legisla- 
ture, and accordingly a house for storing it was 
built near the northern boundary of the N. W. 
public square, at a time when it was sufficiently 
remote from the thickly settled parts of the city to 
prevent danger from an explosion. An increasing 
population rendered another structure in a few years 
necessary, and accordingly the house on the banks of 
the Schuylkill at the west end of Walnut street, was 
erected in 1791. From that place it was removed; 
in the year 18012, in consequence of the extension oi\ 
buildings, to the present situation, near the Schuylkill,^ 
in Passyunk township. \ 

All gunpowder imported from beyond sea, or 
brought by land, must be delivered to the magazine, 
nor come within two miles of the city ; nor must 
any be shipped at the wharves, nor more than thirty \ 
pounds kept in any store at a time. Gunpowder 
is subject to a very strict inspection, by a sworn 
inspector. Act, April the 8th, 1795. 



HEALTH LAW. 131 

Boiling Oil of Tw-pentine and Varnish. 

Persons are not permitted to boil or distil oil of 
turpentine, or make varnish in the thickly settled 
pai-ts of the city or liberties, unless carried on in 
an open place at least thirty feet distant from any 
building, vessel of commerce, or other property that 
might be injured thereby; or in a fire prooff building. 

Health Law. 

Previously to the year 1793, Philadelphia having 
been favoured for many years by a freedom fi'om 
any mortal epidemic, slight precautions had been 
taken to guard against the introduction of disease 
from abroad, or the origination of it at home. Vessels 
having sick on board, or having had deaths during 
the passage, were required to anchor off the laza- 
retto, which had been built at an early date, on 
State Island, a little below the mouth of the river 
Schuylkill, until the " physician oi the port" came 
down, and to him it was left to determine as to the ex- 
pediency of permitting them to proceed to the city, or 
of detaining them for the purpose of purification. 
The sick, if any on board, were landed at the hospi- 
tal. At the first session of the legislature, after the 
awful year before mentioned, a law for the more 
effectual protection of the city from the introduction 
, of pestilential and contagious diseases was passed, by 
' which provision was made for the appointment of, 
1st, A physician to reside at the lazaretto. 2d, A 
consulting physician. 3d, A health officer. 4th, A 
board of health, composed of citizens, from Phi- 
\ ladelphia, the Northern Liberties, and South- 
wark ; who were to make all rules and regulations 
l^for the establishment and conduct of the other offi- 
\ cers. 



132 HEALTH LAW. 

Although in the discussion which the question of 
origin, had undergone during the prevalence of the 
fever of 1793, and after it had ceased, enough had 
been said to shew the probability of the local origin 
of the disease, or at least to prove that the medical 
faculty Avere divided on the subject*; yet the law 
passed, was almost entirely predicated upon the 
supposition of the importation oi the fever o>f 1793, 
and of epidemics generally; and hence, while nume- 
rous provisions were made for preventing the intro- 
duction of malignant diseases irom abroad, little or 
no attention was paid to guard against their origi- 
nating at home. This is not to be wondered at, for 
mankind m all ages have uniformly evinced an un- 
willingness to admit the possibility of their country 
producing pestilence of any kind ; and hence have 
constantly ascribed their afflictions in this way, to 
foreign causes. In the dark ages of ignorance and 
superstition, evil spirits, angry deities, or particular 
planets were blamed ; in latter times importation was 
resorted to. The repeated occurrence of the same 
epidemic, naturally continued the discussion of the 
question of origin, and caused muchlight to be thrown 
on the subject generally, by the body of information 
collected, and the new principles developed; and on 
the whole, has tended greatly to promote diffusion 
of truth, and to benefit mankind. Among other 
good results that have iollowed, is the admission of 
the belief that "• the sin might lie at our own door;'" 
and hence, while no one questions the propriety of 
guarding against the introduction of diseases from= 
certain causes by ships, the propriety of attention 
to the sources of their pi'oduction at home was mad^ 
manifest, and a commendable degree of cleanliness: 
in the city, in which it was before very deficient, has 
followed. 



1 



HEALTH LA\V^, 133 

Since the passage of the first health law, various 
supplements have been added, and an aiitnation of 
the whole s^stein has taken place; the present law was 
passed in 1805. By this, a board Oi health, consisting 
of five members, two oi whom may be physicians, 
to be annually appointed by the governor, were con- 
stituted a body corporate. Three oi the members 
must res'de in the city, one in the Northern Liber- 
ties, and one in Southvvark and IMoyamensing. Out 
oi their own body, the board shall choose a president, 
a secretary, and a treasurer; the board must meet 
once every day between the first of June and first of 
October, and also when specially convened by the 
president, or any two of the members: and is vested 
with full power to make general rules, orders, and 
regulations, .■or the government of the lazaretto, and 
the vessels, cargoes, and persons there detained, or 
under quarantine ; and o! the health office and pub- 
lic hospitals; and to appoint such officers and servants, 
and to allow them such pay as may be found necessa- 
ry and proper. The governor is also required to ap- 
point a resident physician, and quarantine master, to 
reside at the lazaretto ; and a consulting physician, 
and health officer, to reside in Philadelphia. 

Foreign vessels, arriving between the first of June, 
and first oi October, are required to anchor off the la- 
zaretto, and submit to the examination of the resident 
physician, touching the cargo, crew, passengers and 
baggage; to demand answers, on oath or affirmation, 
to all such questions as shall be put to any on board, 
touching those points, and the physician is required 
to inform the persons interrogated, of the penalty for 
giving false answers. If it shall happen that the 
vessel comes from a healthy port, and has had no 
contagious disease on board while out, smallpox and 
measles excepted, and there is no cause to suspect 
an infected cargo, a certificate of health i.s to h*^ 
u 



13 1 HEALTH LAW. 

given to the master, who may then proceed to the 
city, and must present his certificate at the health office 
within twenty-tour hours atter his arrival. The 
board may however, cause further detention. 

ll it appear that the vessel comes from a port at 
which a malignant disease prevailed, she must be 
detained so long as the board of health shall deem 
necessary, but not exceeding twenty days. The let- 
ter bag when purified, shall be transmitted to the 
health officer at Philadelphia, Avho shall deposit it in 
the post office. The vessel and cargo are to be 
cleansed, and the clothing and baggage aired and pu- 
rified at the expense of the owner. Wine, rum, salt, 
sugar, spices, molasses, mahogany, manufacturecl 
tobacco, dye woods, and preserved fruits, may be con- 
veyed to the city in lighters. But ii disease has occur- 
red during the voyage, or while in quarantine, the ves- 
sel is to be detained such further time as the board 
may deem necessary, the cargo to be unladen and pu- 
rified ; and the crew, passengers, cargo and bag- 
gage, except the articles before mentioned, shall not 
be suffered to enter the city before the first of Octo- 
ber, without licence from the board. After purifi- 
cation, and if no disease appear on board, the ves- 
sel may load and proceed to sea, from the lazaretto, 
Keiusal to answer the questions of the physician, 
or deception, incurs the penalty of five hundred 
dollars, and imprisonment at hard labour, for not 
kss than one year, and not exceeding five : neglect 
to present a certificate subjects to a penalty of three 
hundred dollars. Neglecting to obey the orders of 
the lazaretto physician or board of health, subjects 
the offender to a fine not exceeding five hvmdred 
dollars. Vessels of war or coasters, having foreign 
goods on board, or bedding or clothing from any 
foreign port, must submit to the same forms as mer- 
chantmen. 



HEALTH LAW. IdJ 

Persons arriving from foreign ports infected, at 
any port in the United States, shall not enter the 
city after June, until October, without permission, 
under a penalty of five hundred dollars. 

Foreign vessels touching at ports in the Uni- 
ted States shall be liable to all the rules of \esscls 
directly from foreign ports. Coasters and ships ot 
war, arriving betv/een the first da}- of June, and the 
first of October, having on board foreign goods, or 
passengers, bedding or clotliing, from ar.y i(uci;;u 
port, shall be examined ; and if it appear that the .said. 
goods have been landed in the United States more 
than thirty days, and free from damage, the vessel and 
cargo uninfected, and passengers healthy, the ship 
is to be allowed to pass in the usual way; h other- 
wise, the same process is to be adopted as in other 
cases, under a penalty of five hundred dollars. 

Vessels from places infected with the plague, or 
that have spoken others infected therewith, are not 
to pi'oceed to the city : the cargo, &c. on board are 
to be cleansed, and no part permitted to enter the 
citv without permission. The vessel, after being- 
cleansed, may load and proceed to sea. 

Persons or goods arriving at any port in the Uni- 
ted States, from any port at which a malignant dis- 
ease prevailed, or in any vessel in which such dis- 
ease existed, while they were on board, are pro- 
hibited from entering the city or county, between 
the first of June and the first day of October, with- 
out permission of the board, under a penalty of five 
hundred dollars, and forfeiture of goods. 

The board may prohibit communication with in- 
fected ports in the United States; and order vessels, 
from those ports, to stop at the lazaretto; they may 
convey persons from infected places to a place of 
purification ; may interrogate suspected persons: 
may remand vessels, on just cause, to the lazaret- 



136 HEALTH LAW. 

to ; take order to prevent the spreading of conta- 
gion in the city and liberties; prevent communication 
with infected houses; and cause ail offensive or putrid 
substances, and all nuisances, to be removed irom 
any place in the city, or vicinity. Opposition or 
violence to any ol the members of the board, is 
punishable by fine, imprisonment and hard labour. 

Persons going on board, or along side of any vessel, 
or entering the lazaretto, must perform such quaran- 
tine as the board may direct. Fugitives from the 
lazaretto may be apprehended and sent back : 
boarding house keepers must leport persons who 
are taken sick in their houses. Persons afflicted 
with malignant diseases, who cannot be attended at 
•home, may be removed to the city hospital on Schuvl- 
kiU. 

The lazaretto physician visits vessels, orders then- 
purification, and the sick to be removed on shore, 
and attends them there, and executes the orders of 
the board, respecting vessels, cargoes and persons 
under quarantine. 

The quarantine master directs the mooring oi 
vessels near the lazaretto; superintends the purifica- 
tion of the vessels and cargoes ; prevents intercourse 
between vessels and the shore, and preserves order, 
ind enforces obedience to the provision of the health 
law, and the regulations of the board. 

The port physician examines suspected vessels or 
persons that have arrived, at all times, and visits all 
foreign vessels arriving between October and June. 

The health officer attends at his office every day to 
receive certificates of health; enforces the regulations 
of the board, and collects and recovers all monies 
or fines directed to be paid by this act. 

The lazaretto physician receives three dollars for 
every vessel visited ; the port physician, quarantine 
master, and health officer, one dollar each. 



PKOVISION AGAINST FIRE. 13? 

For the reception of persons il] with any pestilen- 
tial or contagious disease, in the city, (small-pox or 
measles excepted,) a commodious brick hospital has 
been erected on the north side of Sassafras street, 
and east side of the river Schuylkill. The expense of 
suppoi't at this hospital, is to be defrayed by the pa- 
tient himself. The description of the building will 
be given when we come to speakof the public build- 
ings. 

Provision against Fiie. 

This, till 1803, consisted of voluntar}' association'*; 
of the citizens, under tlie title of " Fire Companies," 
and have subsisted since the year 1732; at v.'hich 
time, the first association took place. Since that time, 
numerous others have successively been formed; and 
at the present time, the number amounts to upwards 
of forty. The general principles of these associations 
are the same. They provide baskets, buckets, and 
bags, at their individual expense ; and most of them 
have an engine, purchased out of the joint funds of 
the company. They meet monthly, and a member is 
appointed to visit the houses of the members, to see 
that the buckets, &c. are ready for use. There are 
at present about thirty five engines in the city. One 
of the members is appointed to direct the water, in 
case of fire, and the m-embers and citizens generally, 
render their assistance where wanted. A universal 
spirit prevails on such occasions, among the people, 
who exert themselves with an activity, even in the 
most inclement weather, that would seem to arise 
from their having an interest in the property on fire, 
or stock in the office in v/hich the house was insured; 
and actions of disinterested heroism and intrepidity 
have o^ ten been per.ormed, (commonly by the labour- 
ing class, or mechanics,) rvhich v. oukl have, in ancient 



138 PROVISION AGAINST FIRE. 

times, been rewarded by public honours. Many 3uch 
instances have occurred, and some acts have deserv- 
edly been perpetuated, by honourable testimonials 
from offices in which the property on fire had been 
insured. 

The introduction of the water of the river Schujd- 
kill, into Philadelphia, led to the establishment di" a 
system lor extinguishing fires, that cannot be exceed- 
ed lor either dispatch or effect, and deserves par- 
ticular notice. The occurrence of a fire in 1803, which 
destroyed or injured eight new houses, in Sansom 
street, gave the idea ot attaching ar hose to the fire 
plugs of the hydrants in the streets, by which the fire 
engines might be more rapidly filled than by means 
of men standing in a lane, or even before a lane could 
be lormed :* and through which the water would 
also be forced, and might be directed to the part of 
a house on fire. A meeting of a few young men was 
accordingly called at the house of the gentlemanf 
Avho happily conceived the idea; when it was resolved 
to for:n themselves into a company, and to procure a 
hose, and carriage to convey it : but as the expense 
of these, and the erection ol a house to contain them, 
would be beyond their means, assistance was sought 
for from citizens who possessed real estate of great val- 
ue, and trom insurance companies; and a sum was soon 
obtained, which enabled them to accomplish their de- 
sign The original association assumed the name of 
^"" The Philadelphia Hose Company," and a system 
of discipline was established, which gave full effect to 

* The usual mode of supplying engines in time of fire, is by 
buckets handed to men arranged in double columns from pumps 
to the engines. Fifteen minutes are generally employed in filling 
an engine by means of a lane; and only one minute and a half by 
a hose. If the engine have a hose fi om its air vessel, the hose 
%vhich supplies it> will keep it constantly full, 
t Reuben Haines. 



PROVISION AGAINST FIRE. l!^f 

their operations. At the first fire that occurred after 
their establishment*, during a severely cold night, 
their exertions were so successful as to excite die ge- 
neral attention of the citizens present, and to call 
forth several public testimonies in their favour. The 
original patrons o'" this youthful patriotic association, 
had the satislaction of seeing that their pecuniary as- 
sistance had been well bestowed ; and the company 
were gratified by additional subscriptions from the 
citizens and insurance companies ; and by seeing as- 
sociations similar to their own, foi'ming in the city. 

The following is a list of the present hose compa- 
nies in Philadelphia. 

Philadelphia, Good Intent, Resolution, Humane, 
Neptune, Perseverance, Hope, Columbia, South- 
war k. 

Each company consists of about thirty members, 
all of whom are engaged in the active pursuits of life, 
and many of them acquiring trades. Every opera- 
tion is performed systematically. The members are 
designated by badges upon their hats ; and on the 
alarm of fire, they are to be seen with their appara- 
tus brought to the spot, ready to supply the engines 
as they arrive, or to apply water immediately to the 
place on fire, by means of branch pipes. The hose 
is of leather, two and a half, or two and one eighth 
inches diameter; generally a thousand feet in extent, 
and divided into sections of fifty feet, all capable of 
being united, each section being connected by brass 
swivell screws. 

The carriage of the Philadelphia company appears 
to be most complete ; the hose being wound upon 
a cylinder, at once calculated to air it, a measure es- 
sential to its preservation, and to retain it in proper 

* March 3d, 1803, in Whalebone aUey. 



140 WOODEN BUILDINGS. 

order. It has, moreover, a bell, by the sound of which 
the members of the company may know where to 
find it in the night, when out on duty. 

While it is universally admitted that the services 
of these companies have been great, the fact, that 
young men conceived and matured the plan, gives 
it a particular claim to commendation. The ex- 
pense of keeping in repair the carriages, hose, and 
all the apparatus, is great, and latterly, has chiefly de- 
volved on the members, whose gratuitous and pat- 
riotic exertions certainly should secure them against 
pecuniary loss. The corporation, holders ol property, 
and fire insurance companies, are particularly inter- 
ested in keeping up these establishments. 

The following estimate of the value of the fire ap- 
paratus, in the city of Philadelphia, it is believed, is 
below the actual cost. 

35 engines, houses, &:c. !gl200each, $42,000 

Ladders and fire hooks, . . . 1,000 
Nine hose companies, 7850 feet of ") innno 

hose ; houses, carriages and apparatus, J ' 

Houses and apparatus belonging tol 
" The Protectors of Property in time y 400 

of fire," J 

!S65,000 
This last association is lately formed, to prevent 
depredations in time of fire. They have large baskets 
to carry out goods, and carriages with distinguish- 
ing badges, to convey them away. 

Wooden Buildings. 

Since 1796, no wooden buildings are permitted to be 
erected in the thickly settled parts of the city, the li- 
mits of which are designated, under a penalty of five 
hundred dollars, and one hundred dollars addition- 



WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 141 

al, for every three months after conviction, during 
which the same shall remain ; and every person em- 
plo}^ed in the building or erecting any wooden man- 
sion, shall forfeit and pay a fine not exceeding one 
hundred dollars. This excellent law has greatly 
tended to lessen fires in the city, and to improve its 
appearance. 

Weights and Measures. 

The following is a part of a report on this sub- 
ject, made to the legislature of Pennsylvania, in the 
session of 1807, by Mr. John Dorsey. 

"There are in the city of Philadelphia, two offices 
of regulation for weights and measures. One for 
measures of the dry kind, and one lor measures of 
the wet kind, and for weights. The former office 
contains an ancient copper or brass half bushel, sup- 
posed to have been brought from England by Wil- 
liam Penn, or Nathaniel Allen, and to be the same 
that is mentioned in the law of I'/OO. At this time, 
however, there is no certainty, as there are no dis- 
coverable marks of British regulation, as are by the 
said law required : the marks are B. N. E. in two 
places. It is coarsely made; the diameters and bottom 
unequal and irregular; is bruised and patched, and 
does not agree in its contents with the Winchester 
bushel. By the best measurement that can be taken, 
it contains eleven hundred and thirteen, nine tenths, 
cubic inches, and is equal to the bushel of English 
cubic inches, two thousand two hundred and twenty 
seven, eight tenths. There is also a coal tub of usage, 
intended for two bushels, which when stricken, con- 
tains five half bushels, or about two thousand six hun- 
dred and eighteen cubic English inches, and three 
hundred and seventy parts of a thousand. This of- 
fice also contains a cast brass four quart standards 



142 WTilGIITS AND MEASURES. 

of two hundred and seventy five cubic inches, and 
a cast brass two quart standard of one hundred and 
thirty seven cubic inches, both marked with the let- 
ters W. R. and a crown stamp. The latter office con- 
tams a cast brass quart standard, same mark, of 
seventy one and a quarter cubic inches : and a cast 
brass pint standard, both stamped, and evidently of 
the set imported, as beiore mentioned. Being thus 
stamped, they are by the aibresaid law made legal, 
although they do not agree with the Winchester stand- 
ard.* 

There are also in this office, a copper half gallon, 
and a copper ' quart, intended for the regulation of 
wine measures; an iron yard, or three feet measure 
of extension, without known accuracy. Neither of 
these three have any evidence of regulation or legal 
stamp. f There are likewise a number of brass 
weights in gradation from the fifty six pounds weight 
to the half ounce, which bear the appearance of ha- 
ving been imported in pursuance of the aforesaid 
law, having the stamps of the mural crown, the letter . 
C, and the dagger f , which are evidently of the city of 
London regulation. They do not bear the due and 
relative proportion each to the other, especially in the 
smaller weights ; nor can it be expected after such 
length of use : when last tried, the pound and aggre- 
gate ounces varied nearly an ounce. As regards the 
standard for troy weight, by which the precious metals 



* The law of 1700 enacts that " the standards of weights and 
measures shall be according' to the king's standards for the ex- 
chequer." — J, M. 

f The copper measures have probably been made in Philadel- 
phia. The yard was recently compared with a stamped steel mea- 
sure of extension of France, (the Metre,) which is preserved in 
the cabinet of the American Philosophical Society : and agreea- 
bly to the rule of proportion between English and French weights, 
was found strictly accurate.— J. M. 



WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 143 

are assayed and determined, there is none. The 
larger and gross weights are also irregular, and as 
there is no determinate unit of weight from which 
to proceed, there can be no accuracy." 

The report also shews the absurdity of having 
various units, as sources for weights and measures, 
*' inasmuch as that thereby constant opportunities 
for wrong are afforded," and proposes that there 
should be but one unit standard, or source for mea- 
sures of extension ; one unit standard for measures 
of capacity, and one unit standard for weight : one 
office of regulation for each county : one mode of 
measurement by measures of capacity: viz. the strick- 
en, and one mode of weighing the neat hundred. 

The committee remark, " It is of the first conse- 
quence, that every nation should have its own com- 
plete establishment founded on the best principles ; 
but it is not of equal moment whether any two na- 
tions agree in having the same unit ; because a ta- 
ble of the relative proportions will instantly shew the 
quantity, according to the mode in any country. If 
this idea is safe, it goes far to abate the necessity of 
universal standards, inasmuch as, that if ever any such 
standard can be established, the unit of measure must 
be marked thereon, and considered as bearing a re- 
lative proportion thereto : otherwise, all landed titles 
would be annihilated. It then follows, that such 
standard would be little other than a table of relative 
proportions, because no nation could agree to change 
the unit which governs the acre." 

They propose to adopt the following well known 
principle as a standard. " That a measure of capacity 
which will contain an exact cubic English foot, will, if 
filled with pure or distilled water, at sixty degrees 
of Farhenheit's thermometer, the water therein will 
weigh one thousand avoirdupois ounces. If then the 
foot measure is divided into tenths, we obtain just 



l44 AUCTIONEERS. 

one thousand such cubic tenths of water, each of 
vhich will weigh an avoirdupois ounce ; ten whereof 
will give the un;t or weight : ten whereof will also 
give the unit or measure : and ten whereof will give 
our common foot. These being each commensurate 
with the other, will individually be a test for the ad- 
justment of the remaining two : a principle more safe 
than that upon which the weights and measures of 
Great Britain are founded : viz. That thirty two or 
twenty iour grains of wheat, well dried and gathered 
from the middle of the ear, shall in their multiple 
give the pound: or thatthree barley corns shall, in their 
multiple, giVe the foot, masmuch as that the size of 
the grain mvtst always be according to the soil, or 
mode of cultivation." The bushel and gallon of Bos- 
ton, New York and Baltimore, all differ irom that, 
of Philadelphia ; and it is said, from each other. 
These tacts shew the immediate necessity of atten- 
tion to the subject of weights and measures, by the 
general government. 

The reporter since states, that there is reason to 
believe that pure or distilled water, dropping irom 
the exterior of an inverted cove, at a given tempe- 
rature of the thermometer and barometer, wull be of 
uniform weight to the extent of the number of drops 
which are necessary to iorm the ounce : if so, the 
system would be cornplete : viz. a certain number of 
drops would give the present ^avoirdupois otmce ; 
the ounce squared, would give the one tenth part of 
the present English foot, or measure of extension ; 
and also the measure of capacity. 

Aiictio7iecrs. 

Six auctioneers are appointed by the governor, for 
the sale oi goods o; all kinds, and household furni- 
ture in the city of Philadelphia, who are obliged to 



CITY SURVEYORS. 145 

give ample security for the payment of the state duty 
chargeable on the sale of goods. 

The iollovving commissions are allowed the auc- 
tioneers. 



For 



- groceries, 



1^ per cent. 
24- „ 



Dry goods, 

Household goods, . . 2-1- „ 

Real estate and ships, 

The state duty, 

A heavy penalty is incuiTed by unlicensed persons 
attempting to sell by auction. 

The revenue derived to the state from auction du- 
ties is considerable. 

In the year 1809, it amounted to ]S33,635 22 

„ 1810, „ . . 45,000 

The auctioneers make quarterly payments of the 
state duty to the state treasurer. 

The auctioneers are, John Dorsey, Frederick 
Montmollin, Thomas Passmoie, John Humes, 
(Humes & Etting,) Peter Kuhn, Silas E. Weir. 

An auctioneer is also appointed for the exclusive 
public sale of horses and carriages. The days of sale 
are confineu to Wednesday and Saturday ; and a 
place of sale specifically appointed, which at present 
is the south east part of the center square. A penalty 
of four dollars is incurred by every person, for each 
and every head of horse or cattle sold by auction in 
any other place or time, or within the prescribed li- 
mits, at any other time than before specified. 

The commissions allowed by law are, one per cent 
to the state, and two and a half to the auctioneer. 

Auctioneer, A. M'Karaher. 

Citij Surveyors, 

By act of February, 1721, the mayor and common- 
alty were authorized to appoint two surreyors, or 



146 CITY SURVEYORS. 

regulators, whose duty it was to set the foundations 
of houses, and regulate the walls to be built between 
party and party, as to the breadth or thickness there- 
of ; which foundation shall be equally laid upon lands 
of the persons between whom such party wall is to 
be made. The first builder shall be reimbursed one 
half of the charge of such party wall, or for so much 
thereof as the next builder shall have occasion to 
make use of, before he shall break into the said wall. 
The value is to be set by the said regulators. Ten 
pounds penalty is incurred on laying a foundation 
or party wall, before the same be viewed. An appeal 
from the regulators to the court of common pleas is 
provided for, by act of the 15th of April, 1782. By 
this law, no vaults may be dug under the street, with- 
out first obtaining leave from four justices, and a ma- 
jority of the regulators. 

By the thirty sixth section of the act of incorpora- 
tion, the mayor, or recorder and four aldermen are 
authorized to perform all such matters as the war- 
dens and street commissioners, in conjunction with the 
justices, were required to do. They therefore ap- 
point regulators. 

In 1804, councils passed an ordinance requiring 
the mayor to appoint two qualified persons to make 
a surve)^, and regulate, with respect to ascents and 
descents, all the principal unpaved streets of the ci- 
ty, between Delaware Fifth street and the river 
Schuylkill, ascertaining the highest and most eleva- 
ted part of each street, from which the water ought 
to run in different directions : and to make per- 
manent marks at the height of two feet above what 
ought to be the level of the water course ; and to fix 
the course of such common sewers, as they shall judge 
necessary. The surveyors are also required to make 
a dralt of all the principal streets and water courses 
within the aforesaid bounds, marking the several 



WATER WORKS. UT 

points of greatest elevation in each street ; and to in- 
sert in a book, the quantity of descent, expressed in 
inches to the hundred feet, and the depth and quan- 
tity of descent of the sewers ; which book is to be 
deposited in the city commissioners office, for pub- 
lic inspection. The task has been executed by Mr. 
Reading Howell. Future surveyors, and the city com- 
missioners, are required to regulate the lines and li- 
mits of the streets, agreeably to the aforesaid draft. 
There are now four city regulators : James Pear- 
son, Reading Howell, William Stevenson, WliUam 
Garrigues. 

Water Works. 

The attention of the public, to the future necessity 
of a supply to Philadelphia, of other water than that 
aiforded by pumps and wells, was first excited by the 
venerable Franklin ; and in his v/ill, he directed that 
when the interest arising from a legacy which he left 
for a purpose hereafter to be mentioned, amounted to 
a certain sum, it should be applied to the important 
object. Repeated attacks of an awful epidemic, a 
growing conviction in the public mind, of the connec- 
tion between the cleanliness of a city, and its health ; 
of the utility of a copious supply of water in case of 
fire, and for culinary purposes ; and the deterioration 
of our pump Water becoming every year more per- 
ceptible, a general sentiment appeared to prevail on 
the subject. In 1797, petitions were accordingly ad- 
dressed to the city councils, signed by an unprece- 
dented number of respectable citizens; and their at- 
tention was, in consequence, powerfully directed 
thereto. Various schemes were proposed : the chief 
of which were, 1, The completion of the canal in- 
tended to unite the Delaware and Schuylkill. 2, Con- 
ducting the water of Spring-mill, fifteen miles, N. N. 



148 WATER ^YOeKS. 

W. of Philadelphia.* 3, To make a reservoir upon 
the banks of the Schuylkill, to throw up a sufficient 
quantity of water into a tunnel, and to carry it thence 
to a reservoir in Center Square : and after being rais- 
ed there, to distribute it throughout the city by pipes. 
This Avas proposed by Mr. Latrobe. Other plans 
were suggested, which it is unnecessary to mention, 
Aner much deliberation, councils determined upon 
the last plan, and Mr. Latrobe was accordingly em- 
ployed by the committee, as engineer, and to make the 
necessary inquiry, as to the possibility of procuring the 
erection ot steam engines of sufficient power. Aeon- 
tract was entered into with N. J. Roosevelt, of Soho, 
on the river Passaick, in New Jersey, for two steam 
engines, of a power to raise and deliver, at the height 
of fiity feet each, three million gallons of water in 
every twenty-four hours, throughout the year : and 
in order to provide lor the great expenses which 
would be incurred by the work, councils proposed to 
borrow Si 50,000, and pledged the income of the cor- 
porate estates of Philadelphia, and other adequate 
provision within the means and power of the city cor- 
poration, together with any aid the legislature might 
grant, for payment of the interest and redemption of 
the principal. Subscribers to this loan, were also to 
be entitled, in the first instance, to a preference of a 
supply of water, to one dwelling house of each share 
so subscribed, for three years, free of charge : but 
notwithstanding the ample security offered to monied 
men, and the respectability ol the citizens in the coun- 
cils, who took an active part in the business, the loan 
progressed with a slow pace. Two causes contributed 
to this circumstance. A loan had been proposed by 
the United States, at eight per cent, while only six 

* An account of this spring shall be given hereafter. 



WATER WORKS. 149 

per cent, the legal interest of Pennsylvania, was of- 
fered by the corporation. 2d, The stockholders of 
the Schuylkill and Delaware canal, whose charter 
granted to them the liberty of watering the city, op- 
posed the project at every step, by petition to the 
legislature ; and by their influence in the city and 
councils, as an infringement of their rights. This oppo- 
sition contributed to a denial of that aid which hadbeen 
requested, by petitions of the citizens and or the coun- 
cils. 3d, From the novelty of the undertaking, the ge- 
neral failure of all previous attempts at the application 
of steam to mechanical purposes, in the United States, 
especially to boats: and our inexperience in the con- 
ducting the operations of a steam engine on land, also 
contributed, in the minds of many of the citizens, to 
raise doubts of the successful issue of the proposed 
scheme. Under these discouraging prospects, and in 
the hope that by a more clear developement of the 
plan, as expanded to view by its execution, confi- 
dence would be excited, and adequate subscriptions 
be made, councils, with a spirit oi perseverance that 
cannot be too much praised, resolved to advance the 
work, with the funds in hand : but these were soon 
found to be inadequate ; the individual members of 
the committee then generously advanced the neces- 
sary sums wanted, and the Bank ol the United States 
also, afterwards loaned the sum of §20,000, in an- 
ticipation of a tax of S50,000, which councils deter- 
mined to raise. By these aids, the works proceeded, 
and the credit of the city was preserved. On the 2ci 
of May, 1799, the first sod was dug, and although a 
dreadlul epidemic fever prevailed in the succeeding 
autumn, the v/ork vv^ent on without interruption, and 
on the 21st of January, 1801, the first water was 
tlirown into the city, about one mile oi pipes being 
then laid. The rapidity with which the works were 
pushed forward, notwithstanding the solidity and 
N 2 



1^ WATER WORKS. 

mass of the buildings, tunnells and piers, and in spite 
of the fever that afflicted the city, reflects infinite 
credit upon the engineer, and the committee oi coun- 
cils, with whom the superintendence oi the work was 
specifically charged. 

The foregoing account has been designedly minute, 
in order to shew the numerous difficulties that oppo- 
sed the water works in their commencement ; the 
great benefit from them, we hourly experience, and to 
which some oi the then most violent opposers, have 
since owed the preservation oi their property, and in 
all probability, the city much oi its present health: for 
without pretending to ascribe to them all the latter 
effect, it may be mentioned as a striking fact, that 
the malignant fever in 1801, and since that year, 
has been chiefly, if not entirely, confined to those 
parts of the city and liberties, into which the water 
had not yet been introduced. 

The mode in which the watering of the city is ef- 
fected, is first by forming a basin on the Schuylkill 
shore, 84 feet wide, and 200 long, the bed oi which 
is three feet below low water mark; Irom which is an 
open canal, of 160 leet long, extending to near the 
rise of the hill on which the lower engine stands. 
From thence the water passes through a subterrane- 
ous tunnel, six feet in diameter, and three hundred leet 
long, cut nearly the whole distance through granite 
rock, to the sha;t in the engine house, where the pumps 
are fixed: this shaft or well is nJty-four feet deep, and 
ten feet in diameter ; and is tor twenty two feet, also 
cut out of the rock. After the water is raised through 
the shait, by the engine, it falls into a brick tunnel of 
6 feet diameter, and 1408 yards in length, which 
passes under ground, and leads the water up Ches- 
nut street to Broad street, and from thence, into the 
center engine house, where it is again raised 36 feet 
fifom the surface of the street, and runs into a reser.i 



WATER WORKS. 151 

voir containing- 1 6,000 gallons : from this it descends 
to an iron chest, outside oi the builtling, to which the 
difterent mains that supply the general distribution 
are connected ; the mains are, two of 6 inches diame- 
ter, and two of 4^ inches. 

The lower engine near Schuylkill, is a double steam 
engine of forty inches cylinder, and six feet stroke. 
The boiler is seventeen feet long, eight feet wide at the 
bottom, nineteen feet long, and ten feet wide at the 
height of five feet seven inches. It consumed fifty 
bushels of coals, and half a cord of wood, while roll- 
ing iron twelve hours, at twenty strokes per min- 
ute; and pumping water, six hours, at twelve strokes 
per minute. The air pump is an improvement up- 
on that used by Bolton and Watt ; consisting in its 
evacuating the condensor twice at every stroke, there- 
by creating a much better vacuum, and of course 
adding considerably to the power of the engine, in 
proportion to the diameter of its cylinder without 
increasing friction. 

The engine at the center square is also a double 
steam engine, the diameter of whose cylinder is thirty 
two inches. It is worked irregularly, filling alter- 
nately the elevated reservoir, and stopping during 
the time occupied by the discharge of the water in- 
to the city. Mr. Latrobe rated it at twelve strokes of 
six feet, per minute, for sixteen hours in twenty-four, 
during which time it consumed from twent}^-five to 
thirty-three bushels of best Virginia coals.* 

The pipes through the city are chiefly of four and 
a half, and three inches bore. 

The length of pipes laid, is about 35 miles. They 
extend through all the improved parts of the city. 



' A more particular account of the construction of these en- 
gines, boilers, &.c. may be found in the Trans. AiKier. Phil. 
Soc Vol. 6. p. 89, by Mr. Latrobe. 



XJ2 WATER WORKS. 

The whole expense of the works from the com- 
mencement, to November 1, 1810, has been about 
S500,000. 

The pipes are bored by placing the log in two 
cast iron rings, and centered by regulating screws ; 
as the log turns, the augers enter at each end, and 
meet in the middle ; a pipe of fifteen feet long can 
be bored, and the joints made for the connecting 
cylinders, in fifteen minutes. 

The connecting cylinders are of cast iron, widening 
at both ends, that as the log is driven up, the joints 
become tight. 

Private families are supplied With water by small 
wooden and leaden pipes : the ferules that connect 
with the conduit, are half an inch diameter for private 
families, and larger, for breweries, manuLactories, &c. 

The number of manufactories, &c. supplied No- 
vember the first, 1809, was 1590. 

The rents of which amounted to ^9,105 '• 

The number of manufactories to November the 
first, 1810, . . ... 1,922 

The rents . ... ^10,931 

Five engine men are employed in the work through 
the year, and eight others, including a blacksmith, a 
carpenter, a brass founder, and assistants. When pipes 
are laying and boring, more men are required. 

The duty of attending to the various concerns 
of the water works devolves on the watering 
COMMITTEE, which is again formed into subcom- 
mittees of distribution, of accounts, and for purchase 
of fuel, timber, &c. 

The committee of distribution regulate where pipes 
shall be placed, situations for pumps, fire plugs, and 
all other public fixtures; fix the price of water rents 
for manufactories, and all other works that require 
more water than a private dwelling. 



WATER WORKS. 153 

Committee of accounts, examine the accounts and 
form an annual report to councils of the statement 
of the work, accounts, &c. 

Committee for purchase of fuel, attend to the pu¥^ 
chase of wood and coal. 

Committe for timber, purchase all the pipe timber, 
and what other may be required. 

The committee at large, direct the repairs and 
alterations. 

The funds for the support of the works are raised 
by amount of water rents; the balance by a tax. 

The water rents Of this year amount to BlO,931 

The balance by tax. . . . 18,500 



S29,431 
which together are the estimate for carrying on the 
work for the year 1811. 

The quantity of water pumped, will average 
/'00,000 gallons per twenty-four hours. 

The hydrant pumps are similar in construction 
to the common well pumps: the mode of supplying 
them is by a small cistern, to which the water is 
conducted, and fed by means of a ball cock, the ball 
having a lever which connects with the plug of the 
cock, that when the water in the cistern falls, the ball 
follows, and of course opens the cock. 

The watering committee, from a desire to prevent 
the very great waste of the Schuylkill water, which 
prevails throughout the city, have published the 
following statement, to show how necessary it is 
for every person to avoid (and prevent as far as is 
in their power) all waste of the water, with which 
the city is so abundantly supplied, at a very great 
expense, which is considerably increased by continual 
abuses in the use thereof. 

The quantity of water raised at the center square 
engine, for the^supply of the city, is about 250 mil- 



154 iHNT. 

lions of gallons in a year, which cost about 20,000 
dollars, or eight cents for a thousand gallons. 

From various experiments made to ascertain the 
quantity of water discharged through a ferule of 
halt an inch diameter in one minute, the result was, 
seven to ten and a half gallons, according to the 
situation and head of watei at the center engine, the 
average of which is eight, five eighths gallons per min- 
ute, which in one hour will amount to 5171 galU. 

In one day . . . . 12,420 do. 

In one year . . . 4,533,300 do. 

If the water from one liouse runs only half an 
hour in every day, the quantity in a year will 
amount to 94,500 gallons, at eight cents per thou- 
sand gallons, is . . . . $7 56 

The rent for the house per year is . 5 00 

The loss to the city is . . . 2 56 

The fire plugs are three inches diameter and will 
each discharge in one minute, from 200 to 250 gal- 
lons of water, according to the dimensions ot" the 
pipe of conduit it is attached to, and the head at the 
center square, so that in one hour irom 12,000 to 
15,000 gallons of water may be discharged from oac 
fire plug. 

Mint, 

Previously to the passage of the law, by the fed' 
eral government, for regulating the coins of the Uni- 
ted States, much perplexity arose from the use ol 
no less than four different currencies or rates, at which 
one species of coin was reckoned in the different 
parts of the union. Thus, in New Hampshire, Mas- 
sachusetts, Main, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, Ver- 
mont, Virginia, and Kentucky, the dollar was reck- 
oned at six shillings; in New York and North Caro- 
lina, at eight shillings ; in New Jersey, Pennsylvani* 



MINT. 15S 

and Maryland, at seven shillings and sixpence. la 
Georgia and South Carolina, at four and eight pence. 

This subject had engaged the attention of the con- 
gress of" the old confederation, and the present sys- 
tem of the coins, is formed upon the principles laid 
down in their resolve pf 1786: by which the de- 
nominations of money of' account, were required to 
be dollars, (the dollar being the unit) dismes or tenths, 
cents or hundredths, and mills or thousandths of a 
dollar. Nothing can be more simple or convenient 
than this decimal subdivision, and the terms are 
proper because they expi-ess the proportions which 
they are intended to designate. The dollar was 
wisely chosen, as it corresponded with the Spanish 
coin, with which we had been long familiar. 

In the year 1792, a law was passed by the gene- 
ral government for establishing a mint, and for regu- 
lating the coins of the United States : by this law, 
the lollowing coins were to be struck. 

1. Eagles; each to be of the value often dollars, 
and to contain 2474 grains of pure gold, or 270 
grains of standard gold. 

2. Half eagles; each to be of the value of five 
dollars, and to contain 123 grains of pure gold, or 
135 grains of standard gold. 

3. Quarter eagles; each to be of the value of 
two dollars and fifty cents, and to contain 61-y of 
pure gold, or 67-| grains of standard gold. 

Silver Coins, 

1. Dollars or units ; each to be of the Value of 
one hundred cents, and to contain 371^^ grains of 
pure silver, or 416 grains of standard silver. 

2. Half dollars; each to be fifty cents, and to con- 
tain 1854§ grains of pure silver, or 208 grains of 
standard silver. 



ISS MINT. 

3. Quarter dollars; each to be twenty five cents, 
or one fourth oi the value of the dollar or unit ; and 
to contain 924-|- grains of pure silver. 

4. Dismes; each to be of the value of ten cents, or 
one tenth of a dollar, and to contain SY-jts grains of 
pure silver, or 41 f grains of standard silver. 

5. Half dismes; each to be of the value of five 
cents, or one twentieth of a dollar, and to contain 
18tV grains of pure silver, or 20|^ grains of standard 
silver. 

A pound of pure gold, is equal in value to 15 pounds 
Qf pure silver.* 

Copper Coins, 

Cents ; each to be of the value of the one hun- 
dredth part of a dollar, and to contain 168 grains. 
Half cents; to contain 84 grains of copper. 

Moij, : 

Gold coins are to consist of eleven parts of pure 
gold ; and one part alloy. The alloy to be composed 
of silver and copper, in such proportions not exceed- 
ing one half silver, as shall be found convenient ; 
to be regulated by the director of the mint, for the 
time being, with the approbation of the president! 
of the United States. } 

Silver coins are to consist of 1485 parts of purel 
silver, to 179 parts copper. 

The following devices are impressed on the re- 
spective gold and silver coins. On one side, a female ; 
head, emblematic of liberty, with an inscription of the? 
word "Liberty," the thirteen stars, and the year of'| 
the coinage : and on the reverse, an eagle, emblematic i 



In England it is 15 1-5— In France 15 3-5. 



MINT. 157 

of the arras of the United States, with the inscrip- 
tion E PI.URIBUS UNUM, antl the vakie o the piece. 
On the copper coins, a i'emale head, with the word 
"liberty" on the ribbon round the head, with 13 
stars, in a circle, and the year o- the coinage ; and on 
the reverse, the word " one cent," surrounded by a 
wrea h, and the inscription " united states op 
America" on the outer circle. 

No Charge is made for coining bullion. 

At the first establishment of the mint, great dif- 
ficulties and embarrassments were experienced irom 
a variety of causes ; but time has overcome them all, 
and it is understood, that in some respects the pro- 
cess of striking is more complete than in most other 
countries, England excepted. 

The mode of hardening the dies is peculiar to 
the mint, and is the discovery of the present assistant 
coiner, Mr. Eckfeldt. The beauty of the coin of the 
United States, is not inferior to that of any country 
in the world. There is a sharpness and cleanness of 
cut, not perceptible in those of either France or Spain, 

The annual expense of the mint establishment, 
amounts to about 20,000 dollars. On the second 
Monday in February, the commissioner of loans, 
the district judge, and attorney general, are required, 
by law, to attend at the mint, for the purpose of 
having the coins assayed, which have been reserved, 
in order to ascertain whether the coins issued from 
the mint, during the past year, are equal to the stand- 
ard fixed by law. 

Since the establishment of the mint, there have 
been coined, of 

Gold, to the amount of . §2, 763,597 50 

Silver, . . . 4,370,846 50 

Copper, . . . 214,977 21 

Total value of coinage to 1809, g8,349,421 21 
o 



Ij8 JAIL AND PEXAL CODE. 

of which the sum of §3,712,488 have been issued 
during the last four years. The issue of the year 
1810, amounts to Si, 155, 868 50. Of the gold coins, 
the value of $27,000 is the produce of North Caro- 
lina. 

The present officers are, Director, Robert Pat- 
terson. Treasurer, Benjamin Rush. Chief coiner, 
Henry Voight. Melter and refiner, Joseph Cloud. 
Assayer, Joseph Richardson. Engraver, Robert 
Scott. 

The Jail^ and Management of Criminals, 

Previously to a description of the jail, and of the 
mode of punishmg criminals, it will be proper to 
give a short account of the revolution which has ta- 
ken place in the penal laws of the state. 

So much trouble had been given to the British go- 
vernment, by reason of the lax conditions contained 
in the patent of the trading company, under which, 
the colony of Massachusetts had been iormed ; that^ 
it naturally became more attentive to the terms of 
the charter, granted to the founder of Penns\ Ivania, 
m order to prevent those assumptions ot power, and 
attempts at independence, so natural on the part of. 
colonists remote from the mother country. The char- 
ter of Charles II. therefore, to William Penn, which, 
was drawn up by one of the most able lawyers of his, 
time, enjoined that the laws should be made " as near; 
as conveniently may be, agreeably to the laws, stat- 
utes and rights of England, with a saving to the 
crown in case of appeals ;" and in order to insure ani 
observance of this mjunction, it was ordered, that 
a transcript of all laws, shall within five years alter 
the making thereof, be transmitted to the privy coun- 
cil, for the royal approbation or dissent. The hu- 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 13« 

punishments of Britain, and therefore, attempted the 
amelioration of the penal code. " He abolished the 
ancient oppression of forfeitures for sell murder, and 
deodanda in all cases oi homicide. He saw th^ wick- 
edness of exterminating, wViere it was possible to re- 
formj and the folly oi capital punishments, in a coun- 
try, where he hoped to establish purity of morals, ai\d 
innocence of manners. As a philosopher, he wislird 
to extend the empire of reason and humanity : and 
as a leader of a sect, he might recollect, that the in- 
fliction of death in cold blood, could hardly be justi- 
fied by those who denied the lawivdness of war. He 
hastened, therefore, to prevent the operation of the 
system which the charter imposed ; and among the 
first cares of his administration, was that of forming 
a small, concise, but complete code of criminal law, 
suited to the state of his new settlement. Murder, 
*' wilful and premeditated," is the only crime for 
which the infliction of death is prescribed, and this 
is declared to be enacted in obedience " to the law 
of God," as though there had not been any political 
necessity, even for this punishment : yet even here, the 
life of the citizen was guarded by a provision, that 
no man should be convicted, but upon the testimony 
of two witnesses; and by a humane practice, early in- 
troduced, of staying execution till the record of con- 
viction had been laid before the executive, and lull 
opportunity given to obtain a pardon of the offence, 
or a mitigation of the punishment. ,When transmit- 
ted to England, they were all repealed by the queen in 
council : but were immediately reenacted, and they 
continued until the year 1718,*" the epoch of Penn's 
death. The penal code of England was then revived. 



* Inquiry how far the punishment of death is necessary in 
Pennsylvania, By William Bradford, Philadelphia. Dobson, 17y5. 



160 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

The constitution of Pennsylvania, formed upon 
tKc declaration of inrlependence, among many faults, 
contained some excellent provisions, one of which 
directed *■' the legislature to proceed to the reforma- 
tion oi the penal laws, and to invent punishments less 
sanguinary, and better proportioned to the various 
degrees of criminality." The continuance of a war, 
in which the li'jerty of the country was at stake, left 
no time to attend to any subject except those of the 
greatest urgency ; nothing therefore was done until 
after the conclusion of the contest, and until the 
numerous concerns arising from the circumstance of 
the war had been settled. In 1786, the attempt was 
made by the passage of a law, to introduce the pun- 
ishment of hard labour for some offences, which un- 
der the old system had been capital, and to confine 
that of death to four crimes only. The labour 
which the convicts were to perform, was however 
to be public, and they were accordingly chained 
to wheelbarrows, and were employed to clean the 
streets, and repair the roads : as a mark of infamy, 
their heads were shaved, and they wore a particular 
habit. This alteration of the penal system was far 
from having the effect which the friends to humanity 
wished. While the sight of so many objects of 
public infamy was abhorrent to the feeling mind, the 
difficulty of watch. ng them was great, and escapes 
occurred to an alarming extent. " Pardons, so destruc- 
tive to eveiy mild system of penal laws, were granted 
with a profusion, as unaccountable as it was mischiev- 
ous, from both of which causes it happened that men 
were scarcely convicted, before many of them were 
again let loose upon the public.*" Mistaken or mis- 



Bradford's Inquiry, p. 23. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 161 

applied humanity of the citizens, supplied the con- 
victs with better fare than the labouring mechanic 
could afford to purchase, and also with the means of 
procuring spirituous liquors ; and hence intoxication 
was daily seen among men who were expiating their 
crimes by the deprivation of their liberty ; terror was 
sometimes excited by their presence ; they became 
hardened against shame; the various degrees of vice 
were mixed in one mass, so that from the effects of 
contamination, the great object of punishment, viz, 
the reformation of criminals, was completely de- 
feated. 

In the year 1787, Dr. Rush, who had for several 
years before borne a testimony against the system of 
public punishments, read a paper at a " society for 
political inquiries," held at the house of the venerable 
PVanklin, entitled, " an inquiry into the influence of 
public punishments on criminals and society," which 
was afterwards published. In this he exposed the 
errors and mischief of the penal law that had been 
recently passed, and proposed that all punishments 
should be private, and that they should consist of con- 
finement, different kinds of labour, low diet, and soli- 
tude, accompanied by religious instruction. The prin- 
ciples contained in this pamphlet, were opposed with 
acrimony and ridicule, in the newspapers. They 
were considered as the schemes of a humane heart, 
but wild and visionary imagination, v/hich it was im- 
possible from the nature of man, and constitution 
of his mind, ever to realize, and as being much 
more adapted to the government of an Utopia, 
than to those living under that of Pennsylvania. 
Notwithstanding a most powerful opposition, the law- 
was repealed, after it had, by a continuance of tin-ee 
vears, proved the correctness of the arguments which 
had been urged against it. In place of public pun- 
ishment, hard labour in private, fine, solitary im- 
Q 2 



162 JAYL AND PENAL CODE. 

prisonment, and low diet were substituted : gen- 
eral regulations were laid down lor the management 
of the prison, and inspectors were directed to be ap- 
pointed with power to make such iurther regulations 
for the purpose of carrying the act into execution, 
as should be approved by the mayor and recorder 
of the city. The legislature, as ii" apprehending 
that the new system would not ultimately answer, 
limited the law to five years. 

In the year 1788, Dr. Rush published a second 
pamphlet, entitled " an inquiry into the justice and 
policy of punishing murder by death,"* in which he 
adopted and defended the opinion ol the Marquis 
of Bf ccaria, by denying the right of government to 
punish even the crime of deliberate murder by death. 
To this pamphlet a reply was written by the Rev. Mr. 
Annan, oi the Scotch presbyterian church,f who 
chiefly derived his arguments from scripture. Upon 
those texts Dr. Rush published a number of re- 
marks:]: intended to prove, that they all referred to the 
dispensations of Noah and Moses, and that they were 
completely abrogated by the doctrines and precepts 
of the gospel. In the j^ear 1793, Mr. Bradford, the 
attorney general of Pennsylvania, published an " in- 
quiry how far the punishment of death is necessary 
in Pennsylvania," with notes and illustrations, and 
documents irom the criminal courts of the state, 
calculated to enforce and establish the principles and 
arguments previously laid down by Dr. Rush. An 
account of the jail was added by Caleb Lownes, one 
oi the inspectors of the prison. At the following 
session oi the legislature, the punishment of death 
was abolished for all crimes except murder of the 
first degree ; by which is understood "all murder 
perpetrated by means of poison, or by lying in wait; 

* American Museum Vol. 4, 
t Do. do. do. 

i Do. d©. 5. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 1^ 

or by any other kind of wilful, deliberate and premedi- 
tated killing; or which shall be committed in the per- 
petration, or attempt to perpetrate, any arson, rape, 
robbery or burglary." Such has been the effect of 
the abolition of the spectacles of public executions, 
upon the feelings of the citizens ol Pennsylvania, 
that it is now difficult to obtain a jury that will find 
a man guilty of murder, even when it is attended 
with circumstances of malice and cruelty; for which 
reason, governor Snyder has recommended, in a 
message to the legislature of Pennsylvania, to abo- 
lish the punishment of death in all cases whatever. 
A motion to the same purpose, and prefaced by 
some powerful arguments, was made in the senate 
of Pennsylvania during the session of 1809, by Mr. 
John Connell)", to whom, with Mr. C. Lownes, may 
be justly ascribed the merit ol bringing to the test 
of the fullest and most successful experience, the 
humane principles of the new penal code. These 
gentlemen were appointed mspectors of the prison, 
at an early period, and upon them chiefly devolved 
the arduous task of breaking down all difficidties 
arising from the long continuance of that most dis- 
gusting, that foul system oi discipline, which had long- 
disgraced the management of the jail. 

Those who recollect the situation of the jail of 
Philadelphia, under the former regime, or those 
who have seen the prisons of Europe at the present 
day, may readily form an opinion of the difliculties 
that attended the attempt at reformation, as contem- 
plated by the new code. The task was truly arduous: 
an Augean stable of filth and iniquity was not only 
to be cleansed, but industry, and morality to be 
introduced, and under difficulties that seemed al- 
most insurmountable. The jailor, the man whose 
duty required him to assist in the experiment, by a 
faithful obedience to the orders of the inspectors, con- 



164 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

stituted one of them, for he had grown wealthy by tht 
abuses which had been for a long time tolerated, and 
feared the introduction of a system which would cause 
his conduct to be closely watched j and the garnish, jail 
fees, sale of liquor, and other perquisites to cease. 
His opposition was therefore decided, and the num- 
ber ot his friends enabled him to retain his place, 
notwithstanding the remonstrances of the inspectors 
against him. The prisoners were informed that their 
former habits of indolence, the free use of spiritu- 
ous liquors, and unrestrained intercourse were to 
end; and labour, sobriety and regularity to take place. 
They also therefore took the alarm, and on the even- 
ing of the first day on which the grand experiment was 
tried, they made a most desperate attempt to escape; 
fifteen of them succeeded. Upon the restoration oif 
order, the adoption of mild, but decided conduct, ulti- 
mately secured the most perfect obedience. The pri- 
soners were informed that " their treatment would de- 
pend upon their conduct, and that those who evinced 
a disposition that would afford encouragement to 
believe they might be restored to liberty, should 
be recommended for a pardon ; but if convicted 
again, the law in its fullest rigour would be carried 
into effect against them. A change of conduct was 
early visible They were encouraged to labour; 
their good conduct was remarked ; many were par- 
doned, and before one year was expired, their be- 
haviour was almost without exception, decent, or- 
derly, and respectful. This fact is o- importance, as 
it disproves an opinion that has led to much dis- 
tress and cruelty, and will be an encouragement to 
those who can leel .;or this unhappy class ot mankind, 
so long the victims to the effects oi a contniry treat- 
ment."* 



Lownc's account of penal laws. Bradford's Inquiry, p. 84. 



JAIL AND PE^^AL CODE- 165 

A detail of the progress of the experiment, of the 
clifficulties the inspectors had to encounter, from 
inexperience in the management of criminals, Avhose 
apparent amendment sometimes proved the veil for 
consummate hypocrisy ; the difficuhy of procuring 
suitable and sufficient employment, for the various 
classes of convicts that came under their care ; the 
various steps by which, in fine, the system has been 
brought to its present perfection, would ■brm materi- 
als for a display, wliich to the philanthropist, could 
not fail to be highly interesting ; but the nature of 
the present work requires an arttntion to brevity 
that forbids the attempt, and therclore the system 
now in operation shall merely be given. 

1. Cleanliness, so intimately connected with mo- 
rality, is the first thing attended to, previously to any 
attempts at that internal purification, which it is the 
object of the di3cipline to effect. The criminal is 
washed, his clothes etTectually purified and laid aside, 
and he is clothed in the peculiar habit of the jail, 
which consists of grey cloth, made by the prisoners, 
adapted to the season. The attention to this impor- 
tant point is unremitted, during their confinement. 
Their faces and hands are daily washed ; they are 
shaved, and change their linen once a week, their 
hair is kept short ; and, during the summer, they 
bathe in a large tub. The apartments are swept and 
washed once or twice a week, as required, through- 
out the year. 

2. Work suitable to the age and capacity of the 
convicts is assigned, and an account is opened with 
them. They are charged with their board, clothes, 
the fine imposed by the state, and expense of prose- 
cution, and credited for their work ; at the expi- 
ration of the time of servitude, half the amount of 
the sum, if any, left after deducting the charges, is 
required by law, to be paid to them. As the board 



^e€ JAIL AND PENAL COBE. 

is low, the labour constant, and the working hours 
greater than among mechanics, it is easy lor the con- 
victs to earn more than the amount ol iheir expenses; 
so that when they go out, they receive a sum ol money- 
sufficient to enable them to pursue a trade, ii so dis- 
posed, or at least, that will keep them irom want, 
until they jfind employ, and prevent the necessity of 
stealing. 

On several occasions, ihe balance paid to a convict 
has amounted to more than one liundred dollars : in 
one instance it was one hundred and fifty dollars :| 
and Irom ten to lorty dollars are commonly paid.i 
When, from the nature of the v. ork at which the 
convict has been employed, or liis v/eakness, his la- 
bour does not amount to more than the charges 
against him, and his place of residence is at a dis- 
tance from Philadelphia, he is furnished with money- 
sufficient to bear his expenses home. The price of 
boarding is sixteen cents per day, and the general 
cost of clothes for a year, is nineteen dollars thirty 
three cents. 

5. The prisoners lie on the floor, on a blanket, and 
about thirty sleep in one room; they are strictly pro- 
hibited from keeping their clothes on at night. The 
hours for rising and retiring, are announced by a bell ; 
and at those times they go out and come in, with the 
greatest regularity. For their own comfort, they have 
established a set of rules, respecting cleanliness, ob 
breach of which a fine is exacted. No one is even per. 
mitted to spit on the floor. A large lamp is hung up, 
out of the reach of the prisoners, in every room, which 
enables the keeper or watch to see every man ; and 
for this purpose a small aperture is made in ever} 
door. The end of the cord by which the lamps are 
suspended, is outside of the rooms : the solitary cell; 
is the punishment for extinguishing these lamps. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 16/ 

6. Their diet is wholesome, plain and invigorating, 
and their meals are served up with the greatest regu- 
larity and order : a bell announces when they are 
ready, and ail collect at the door leading to the pas- 
sage where they eat, before any one is allowed to 
enter. They then take their seats without hurry or 
contusion ; and all begin to eat at the same time. 
While eating, silence is strictly enjoined by the pre- 
sence ot the keepers, who give notice oi the time 
for rising irom table. For breakmst, they have about 
three iburths oi a pound ol good bread, with mo- 
lasses and water. At dinner, holi a pound ot bread 
and beei, a bowl ot soup and potatoes. Sometimes 
herrings, in the spring. At supper, corn meal mush 
and molasses, and sometimes boiled rice. 

The blacks eat at a separate table. There is also 
a table set apart tor those who have committed of- 
fences for the first time, but not oi sufficient enorm- 
ity to merit the solitary cells ; such as indolence, 
slighting woi-k, impudence, &c. and to such no meat 
is given. Every one finds his ailov/ance ready on 
his trencher. The drmk is molasses and water, 
which has been iound to be highly useiul, as a re- 
freshing draught, and as a medicine. Spirituous liquors 
or beer never enter the walls of the prison. The 
cooks and bakers are convicts, who are allowed thirty 
cents per day by the inspectors. The decency of 
deportment, and the expression of content, exhibited 
by the convicts at their meals, renders a view of 
them, while eating, highly interesting. No provisions 
are permitted to be sent to the convicts from with- 
out. 

7. The regularity of their lives, almost secures 
thc-m against disease. A physician, however, is ap- 
pointed to attend the prison, a room is appropriated 
for the reception of the sick or hurt, and nurses to 
attend them- The effect of the new system has 



/i 



168 5 AIL AND PENAL COBE. 

been seen, in no particular, more evidently than in 
the diminution oi disease among the convicts. 

8. Relfgious ins ruction was one of the original 
remedies prescribed for the great moral disease, 
which the present penal system is calculated to cure. 
Divine service is generally perlormed every Sunday, 
in a large room appropriated solely ior the purpose. 
Some clergyman or pious layman, volunteers his 
services, and discourses are delivered, suited to the 
situation and capacities of the audience. The prison- 
ers in the cells, are denied this indulgence j good 
books are likewise distributed among them. 

9. Corporal punishments are strictly prohibited, 
whatever ofi'ence may have been committed. The 
keepers carry no weapons, not even a stick. The 
solitary cells and low diet, have on all occasions 
been found amply sufficient to bring down the most 
determined spirit, to tame the most hardened villain, 
that ever entered them. Oi the truth oi this there 
are striking cases on record. Some veterans in vice, 
with whom it was necessary to be severe, have declared 
their preierence of death by the gallows, to a further 
cont nuance in that place o; torment. In the cells, the 
construction oi which renders conversation among 
those confined in them difficult, the miserable man is 
left to the greatest of all possible punishments, his own 
reflections. His iood, which consists of only half a 
pound of bread per day, is given him in the morning; in 
the course oi a few days or weeks the very nature of 
the being is changed, and there is no instance oi" any 

one having given occasion for the infliction of this 
punishment a second time. Such is the impression 
which the reports of its effects have left among the 
convicts, that the very dread of it is sufficient to 
prevent the frequent commission of those crimes, ibr 
which it is the known punishment, as swearing, im- 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 169 

pudence, rudeness, quarrelling, indolence repeated, 
or wilful injury to the tools, or to articles of manufac- 
ture. 

The fear of the cells is also increased from other 
causes. The convicts are well acquainted with the 
general principles of the system pursued ; and hearing 
the grating of the stone saw, or the noise of the nail 
hammer, they naturally reflect, that while they them- 
selves are idle, their comparatively happy fellow con- 
victs are working out their daily expenses and laying 
up a sum for themselves, when their period of servi- 
tude shall arrive; andthattheirown confinementin pri- 
son must either be prolonged, or that they must redou- 
ble their industry aJter liberation from the cells, to 
make up for lost time: and above all, that the hopes of 
pardon, or of a diminished time of service, are cut off 
by thus incurring the displeasure of the inspectors. 
Whatever additional reflections occur to them, these 
alone are sufficiently powerful to prevent a repetition 
of offences. 

Formerly, all revenue arising from the work of the 
city and county convicts, was paid to the keeper of the 
prison, the deficiency for its support being advanced 
by the commissioners of the county of Philadelphia, 
who collected the monies for the support of the con- 
victs, from the different counties ; but by a law passed 
February 1 809, the amount of the work is to be paid 
to the treasurer of the inspectors, who are also au- 
thorised to choose, by the same act, a president and 
secretary from their own body. All monies are to 
be paid by the treasurer, upon the orders of the 
board, signed by the president, and attested by the 
secretary : his accounts are to be settled every two 
weeks. He is authorised, in the name of the presi- 
dent of the board, to sue for, and recover alimonies 
due from individuals to the institution. 'I he accounts 
of the inspectors are settled by three persons, ap- 



170 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

pointed annually, in March, by the court of quarter 
sessions. 

There are fourteen inspectors, three of whom are 
elected by the select and common councils in joint 
meeting, in May and November ; two by the com- 
missioners of the Northern Liberties, and two by 
the commissioners of Southwark, at the same time. 
Three members are appointed out of the board, to 
inspect the accounts of the prison, who are to fur- 
nish, (m oath or affirmation, on the first week in Jan- 
uary, annually, to the conamissioners of such coun- 
ties as may have become indebted for convicts con- 
fined in the prison, a correct account current of 
the amount of the weekly expenses incurred for the 
maintenance of said prisoners ; and of the value of 
the labour performed by them; which statement is 
to be attested by the president and clerk of the 
board. 

Although it would form no solid objection to 
the penal system of Pennsylvania, considering the 
good that has resulted from it, that the convicts did not 
maintain themselves, yet it will tend to increase 
our opinion of the value of the establishment, when 
we know that those men who have forfeited their 
right to liberty by the commission of crimes, ( for 
which they can have no plea in a country where 
there are never hands enough for the work going on) 
are not a burthen upon society. Hitherto, owing to 
the erection of the necessary buildings for the ac- 
commodation and security of the various convicts, 
the purchase ©f tools, and the maintenance of the 
vagrants, Sec. the expense has been considerable, 
and probably equal to the amount of work done; 
but, the permanent expenses of the establishment hav- 
ing ceased, and full powers having been given to the 
inspectors to compel payment ior the debts due to 
the jail, a balance now appears in favour of it, not,- 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 171 

withstanding the constant maintenance of upwards 
of one hundred and fifty persons, vagrants, run away 
servants, and others for trial, who are employed solely 
in picking oakum and hair, and who cannot maintani 
themselves thereby. In this respect therefore, more 
has been done than was ever expected by the bene- 
volent Howard. 

The management of the prison is committed, as al- 
ready said, to a board of inspectors, with the usuiJ 
resident officers, all of whose duties are pointed out 
by the following extract of an act of the legislature, 
and by the subsequent rules of the inspectors. 

Vis'itiJig Inspectors, 

The visiting inspectors shall attend at the prison, 
together, at least twice in each week, and oftener if 
occasion require ; at which times they shall exam- 
ine into and inspect the management of the prison, 
the conduct of the keeper, deputies, and assistants : 
they shall also carefully enquire into, and report the 
conduct and disposition of the prisoners, and see 
that they are properly and sufficiently employed ; 
that proper attention to cleanliness is observed ; 
that due enquiry be made respecting the health 
of the prisoners, and that their food is served in 
quantity and quality, agreeably to the directions of 
the board ; that the sick are properly provided for, 
and suitable clothing and bedding are furnished to 
all — they shall hear the grievances oi the prisoners, 
receive their petitions, and bring forward the cases of 
such whose conduct and circumstances may appear 
to merit the attention of the board. They shall be 
careful to prevent improper out door communications 
with the prisoners ; that no spirituous liquors be ad- 
mitted on any pretext whatever, except by order of 
the physician. That no intercourse be admitted be- 



172 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

tween the sexes; iliat the regulations of the board, 
respecting the distribution of the prisoners, accord- 
ing to then- characters and circumstances be attended 
to. That proper means be used to promote religious 
and moral improvement, by the introduction of use- 
ful books, and procuring tlie performance of divine 
service as often as may be. 

They shall, from time to time, report to the com- 
missioners of the county, all such prisoners who 
have been sent from other counties, and have incur- 
red a charge for their maintenance more than the 
profits of their labour will defray, in order that 
compensation may be had as the law directs. 

They shall cause fair returns to be made out, and 
laid before the board monthly, of all the prisoners, 
their crimes, length of confinement, by whom com- 
mitted, when and how discharged, since the preced- 
ing return. 

They shall attend to the keeper, deputies and 
assistants, by observing their treatment of the pris- 
oners, and suffer no persons addicted to liquor, mak- 
ing use of profane swearing or other improper lan- 
guage, to be employed on this duty. 

They shall constantly bear in mind that all men 
are free, until a legal proof is made to the contrary; 
they will therefore take care that no person is held 
in confinement, on bare suspicion of being a run- 
away slave ; and those persons who are actually 
slaves, and not applied for by proper claims within 
a limited time, shall be returned to the supreme or 
other proper court, for a habeas corpus to remove 
them according to law ; and, generally, they shall 
see that the present and subsequent directions of 
the board be carried into effect. 



JAIL AXD PENAL CODE. 173 



Keeper of the Prison. 

The keeper of the prison, besides attending to the 
safe keeping of the prisoners, shall carefully inspect 
into their moral conduct, shall enjoin a strict at- 
tention to the regulations relative to cleanliness, so- 
briety and industry, and be careful to avoid ihat 
penalty which is incurred by suffering a criminal to 
escape. He shall also, with the approbation of two 
of the inspectors, provide a sufficient quantity of 
stock and materials, working tools, and implements 
for the constant employment of the prisoners. He 
shall deliver out their work and receive it from 
them by weight or measure, as the case may be, in 
order that embezzlement or waste may be prevented, 
by the prisoners ; and by every laudable means in 
his power make their labour as profitable as possi- 
ble. He shall, as the law directs, keep separate ac- 
counts for all convicts sentenced to labour six 
months and upwards, in which the expense of cloth- 
ing and subsistence shall be charged, and a reason- 
able allowance for their labour be credited : these 
accounts shall be balanced at short periods, in order 
that the prisoner, at his discharge, may receive the 
proportion, if any, that is due to him. 

He shall cause all accounts concerning the main- 
tenance of the prisoners to be entered in a book 
or books for the purpose, and shall also keep sepa- 
rate accounts of the stock and materials purchased 
by him; shall take proper vouchers whenever money 
is expended ; shall regularly credit the materials 
mimufactured and sold, mentioning to whom, and 
when disposed of; and at every quarterly meeting 
of the board, shall exhibit his accounts and vouchers, 
for their approbation and allowance, 
p 2 



174 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 



Turnkey, 

The turnkey shall admit no person, except the in- 
spectors, keeper, his deputies, servants, or assistants, 
officers and ministers of justice, counsellors or attor- 
nies at law, employed by a prisoner, ministers of the 
gospel, or persons producing a written licence, signed 
by two of the said inspectors ; and the latter, only 
in his presence or some one of the officers of the 
prison. He shall prevent the admission of any spiri- 
tuous liquors, or any other improper article to the 
prisoners, and on every attempt of this kind that 
may be detected, he shall make discovery thereof, 
in order that the penalty inflicted by law may be 
recovered. 

Keepers^ Deputies^ £s?c. 

The keepers, deputies, and assistants shall be 
careful to preserve cleanliness, sobriety and indus- 
try among the prisoners ; to inform them of the rules 
of the house, and to enjoin the observance of them 
by mild yet firm measures ; they shall be careful to 
prevent embezzlement, waste, or destruction of im- 
plements or materials ; they shall constantly reside 
in the house and inspect the conduct and labour of 
the prisoners — report the negligent, profane or dis- 
orderly (who shall be removed) and the industrious, 
quiet and exemplary, that they may be recommend- 
ed by the visiting inspectors, who have it in charge 
to bring such to the favourable notice of the board. 

Watchmen, 

The watchmen shall continue in the prison all 
night, two ol whom shall be within the iron gate, 
and two in the inspectors room — they shall patrole 



JAIL. AND PENAL CODE. 175 

the inside constantly, and strike the bell every 
hour — they shall report any remarkable occurrence 
of the night to the clerk of the prison, on the suc- 
ceeding day, who shall commit the same to writing, 
and lay it before the visiting inspectors, at their 
next meeting ; and as the safety of the prison so 
much depends on their vigilance and attention, it is 
required that no circumstance shall prevent the 
performance of their regular and frequent rounds. 

RuleSy Orders^ and Regulations for the Jail of the 
city and county of Philadelphia. 

1. The males and females shall be employed, and 
shall eat and be lodged in separate apartments, 
and shall have no intercourse or communication 
with each other. 

2. The prisoners shall be constantly employed in 
such labour as the keeper (with the concurrence of 
the inspectors) may consider best adapted to their 
age, sex and circumstances : regard being had to 
that employment which is most profitable. 

3. If any of the prisoners shall be found remiss, 
or negligent, in performing what is required of them, 
to the best of their power and abilities, or shall wil- 
fully waste or damage the goods committed to their 
care, they shall be punished for every such offence, 
as may be hereafter directed. 

4. if any of the prisoners shall refuse to comply 
with these regulations, or to obey the officers of 
the prison, or shall be guilty of profane cursing or 
swearing, or of any indecent behaviour, conversa- 
tion or expression, or of any assault, quarrel, or abu- 
sive words to, or with any other person, they shall 
be punished for the same, in manner hereafter di- 
rected. 

5. The convicts, prisoners for trial, servants, run- 
aways, and vagrants, shall be separately fed, lodg- 
ed jind employed. 



176 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

6. Offenders shall be reported to the Inspectors, 
and punished by close solitary confinement, and their 
allowance of food reduced — but in cases where the 
security of the prison is in danger, or personal 
violence offered to any of the officers, then the said offi- 
cers shall use all lawful means to defend themselves, 
and secure the authors of such outrage. 

7. No officer or other person shall sell any thing 
used in the prison, nor buy, sell, or barter any arti- 
cle, by which they can have benefit ; neither shall 
they suffer any spirituous or fermented liquors to 
be introduced, except such as the keeper may use in 
his own family, or for medical purposes, prescribed 
by the attending physician, under the penalty of 
five pounds, if an officer, and dismission from office ; 
or if a prisoner, he shall be proceeded against as 
in the seventh article. 

8. The prisoners, on their first admission, shall 
be separately lodged, washed, and cleansed ; and shall 
continue in such separate lodging, until it shall 
be deemed prudent to admit them among the other 
prisoners, and the clothes in which they were com- 
mitted shall be baked, fumigated, and laid by ; to 
be returned them at their discharge ; and during 
their confinement, to be clothed according to law. 

9. Any persons detected in gaming of any kind, 
shall be proceeded against agreeably to the seventh 
article. 

10. Any person who shall demand or exact a 
garnish, beg, steal, or defraud, shall be punished as 
directed by the seventh article. 

11. The prisoners who distinguish themselves 
by their attention to cleanliness, sobriety, industry 
and orderly conduct, shall be reported to the inspec- 
tors, and meet with such rewards as is in their 
power to grant or procure for them. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 177 

12. The prisoners shall be furnished v. ith suitable 
bedding; shall be shaved twice a week; their hair 
cut once a month; change their linen once a week, 
and regularly wash their face and hands every mor- 
ning. 

13. The prison shall be white-washed at least 
twice in the year, and oftener if occasion requires ; 
the floors shall be swept every morning, and wash- 
ed on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from twentieth 
of May to the first of October, and once a week 
for the remainder of the year.* 

14. The sweepings of the prison shall be collec- 
ted and deposited in a place for the purpose, and ■ 
removed once in every two weeks ; the necessaries 
shall also be cleansed daily. 

15. The yards of the prison shall be kept free 
from cows, hogs, dogs, and fowls. 

16. The physician for the time being, shall keep 
a register of the sick, their disorders, and his pre- 
scriptions ; and shall render his accounts for the 
examination and allowance of the inspectors at each 
of their quarterly meetings. 

17. At the performance of divine worship, all 
the prisoners shall attend, except such as may be 
sick. 

1 8. The turnkey, deputies, and assistants shall be 
tradesmen, in order that the trades and employments 
within the house, shall be more effectually and pro- 
fitably executed. 

19. All prisoners committed as vagrants, and 
who have been convicts, shall be confined in the 
cells during their commitment. 

20. No provision, other than the prison allow- 
ance, shall be furnished to a convict, or vagrant, 
without the permission of the visiting inspectors. 



This is now so far attended to, as occasion may require. 



178 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

21. There shall be wardsmen, appomted by the 
visiting inspectors, whose duty it shall be to keep 
the windows, passages, yard, and privies clean, 
and who also shall be lodged and fed in a room by 
themselves. 

22. Run-away or disorderly apprentices, and 
servants, shall be separately fed, lodged, and em- 
ployed, and the keeper shall give notice to their 
masters or mistresses at the time of their commit- 
ment, of the charge that will accrue for their daily 
maintenance, who uiay at their option agree to 
pay the same, or provide the necessary food them- 
selves. 

23. The charge for the maintenance of slaves, 
shall be the same as that of apprentices or run- 
aways. 

24. No men shall be permitted to visit the wo- 
men's apartments, unless in the company of one or 
more of the inspectors of the prison ; and no wo- 
men shall be permitted to visit any other part of 
the prison than the women's apartments, unless it be 
such as desire to meet with the prisoners in the 
meeting-house on the first day of the week, for the 
purpose of communicating religious instruction. 

25. Such of the convicts as conduct themselves 
properly, and are diligent in their work, and such 
only, may be permitted to be visited by their hus- 
bands or wives, parents or children, once in three 
months, by orders signed by the two visiting in- 
spectors. 

26. In all visits to prisoners, by permission of the 
visiting inspectors, the wooden grated door shall 
be shut ; and all conversation with the prisoners 
shall be through both the grates; a keeper to be in 
the entry, to hear all that passes in such inter- 
views, and the interview shall not be longer than 
fifteen minutes. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 179 

27. The design of the inspectors introducing 
persons to view the interior of the prison, being 
chiefly for strangers whose object may be to intro- 
duce simihir institutions elsewhere, or to improve 
them where already established, the inspectors will 
endeavour to discourage any persons from going 
to view the prison merely to gratify idle curiosity, 
as it has a bad tffect on the prisoners. 

Description of the Prison and Cells, 

The prison was built in pursuance of an act of the 
legislature of Pennsylvania, passed on the twenty-first 
of October, 1773. The ground originally purchased 
by the commissioners, for the purpose of its erection 
and use, comprehended also the lot occupied by the 
" debtors apartment" in Prune street, and was bought 
partly of the proprietors, Thomas and John Penn, 
and partly of private persons, for the sum of ^3,252. 
The whole lot is about two hundred feet on Wal- 
nut street, by four hundred on Sixth street. 

The prison consists of a stone building, front- 
ing Walnut street, about 184 feet in length, and 
about 32 in depth. " It is two stories high, and di- 
vided into rooms of equal dimensions, viz. 20 by 18 
feet : an entry in the middle, 7\ feet wide, leads 
to a passagell4 feet wide, extending the leng.h of 
the building, with stairs and windows at each end : 
the upper story and the cellar are upon the same 
plan; there are eight rooms on each floor, all arched, 
tor the two-told purpose of securing against fire and 
escapes, with two windows to each room. On the 
east and west are two wings, extending ninety leet 
south, two stories high, containing five rooms on the 
floor of each wing, nearly the size of those in tront, 
but with one window, and all arched : the ground 
floor of these was formerly the dungeon, but have 



ISO JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

not been used for some years. On the south side is a 
stone building,at firstdesigned for a workhouse, where 
the debtors are now confined. Three hundred feet of 
the north part of the lot are appropriated to the use 
of the convict prison, and is divided into portions for 
the accommodation of the different classes ol prison- 
ers. Walls, twenty feet high, extendmg to Prune 
street, connect with the east and west wings. 

The prison was designed and budt under the direc- 
tion ot the late Robert Smith, and is one oi the many 
buildings for which Philadelphia is indebted to that 
excellent and faithful architect. It is so effectually fire 
proof Internally, the rooms being groin arched, that 
repeated attempts to fire it have failed ; and the ori- 
ginal external rough-casting stands to this clay. 

Solitary Cells. 

These are contained in a brick building, of three 
stories, raised on three arches. The cells are sixteen 
in number, their dimensions six feet by eight, and 
nine feet hgh. Light is admitted by a window at the 
end of the passages, and by a small window placed 
above the reach ot the person confined, well secured 
by an iron grate, outside of which is a blind or lou- 
ver, so fixed, as to admit the rays of light, only 
from above ; communication with those outside is 
therefore impossible. A privy, consisting of a leaden 
pipe, below a brick work, properly constructed in 
one corner of the cell, leads to sewers under ground. 
These may be cleansed at will, by turning a cock fix- 
ed to a leaden pipe from a cistern of water. Stoves 
in winter, are placed in the passages, out of reach ot 
the convicts. To each cell there are two doors ; one 
outside of an iron grating, and one inside, of wood, 
which are screwed together every night. In the 
day time the wooden door is left open, to admit air. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 181 

I 

No conversation between persons confined in these 
cells can take place, except by vociferation, and as 
they would then be heard, and their time of con- 
finement increased, the utmost silence commonly 
prevails, except when they are first put in, and be- 
fore the tranquilizing effects of the cells have had time 
to appear. 

Vagrants, run-away servants, and disorderly per- 
sons, are committed for a term not exceeding thirty 
days, in the same apartment with those for trial, and 
for want of yard room, are necessarily kept at em- 
ployments, which do not pay for the expenses incur- 
red by them. Characters of all descriptions, and all 
degrees of vice are here mixed in one mass, an evil 
that formed one of the most striking defects of the 
old penal code, and that constitutes the only imper- 
fect part of the present system ; but which will be 
remedied, when the new penitentiary on Mulberry 
street, corner of broad street, shall be finished, as the 
objects alluded to may then be profitably employed. 

Effects of the System, 

Such are the remedies which have been prescri- 
bed, in Pennsylvania, for the cure of vice, that great 
moral disease. Their effects, and the theory of their 
action, shall now be briefly noticed. 

The beneficial effects derived from the abolition of 
the system of public and severe punishments, have 
been sensibly felt by the state at large, and especi- 
ally by the city of Philadelphia. The recollection, 
by our own citizens, of the frequent robberies and 
other crimes formerly perpetrated in the capital, and 
the comparatively few committed since the operation 
of the new law, is the best evidence of this position. 

A return from the prison books, would also tend to 
confirm it, although not in so accurate a manner as 



18J JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

might be expected, owing to the very great influx ot 
inhabitants that has taken place since 1790, especi- 
ally of blacks ; and to the circumstance of the con- 
victs from the counties, remaining in Philadelphia, 
in preference to returning to the scenes of their for- 
mer crimes; for it is well known, that in some ot the 
counties, the convicts, for trifling offences, are sen- 
tenced to labour for a term sufficiently long to au- 
thorize their being sent to the prison ; and that in 
many cases, they are sentenced in the counties to 
double and threefold the term of servitude, to which, 
for similar offences, they would be sentenced in the 
county of Philadelphia j this prevents their return- 
ing to their counties after the expiration of their 
terms of servitude, and except those who are par- 
doned on condition ot their leaving the state, they 
generally remain in Philadelphia, and often become 
convicts in the county. " With respect to^larcenies and 
burglaries, it appears that more persons were tried 
for these offences, while they were capital, than since 
the punishment has been lessened : and if we allow 
for reconvictions, the difference will be much great- 
er.""* 

The theory of the action of the means employed 
to prevent, and reform criminals, will serve to illus- 
trate them more clearly. The great causes of vice 
are idleness, intemperance and evil connections, and 
as the system pursued admits of none of these, but 
proceeds upon the principles of industry, sobriety, 
good example, and other cooperating measures; it 
must follow from the very constitution of human na- 
ture, that unless in the case of hardened and old of- 
fenders, and such fortunately are all disposed of, that 
salutary effects must be produced by the opera- 

* Bradford's Inquiry, p. 25. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE 183 

lion of the measures adopted. The crimhial knows, 
and must be convinced, however unwilling to ac- 
knowledge the fact, that his sentence is justly inflict- 
ed ; the nature of this sentence moreover, assures 
him, that his improvement in morals is the sole ob- 
ject in view, and that vengeance, which some mo- 
dern European statesmen still think " is the prima- 
ry object of consideration, the foundation of the pe- 
nal law,"* is no part of its intention : hence those 
angry passions, which the laceration of the body by 
stripes, cropping ears, and pilloring, invariably ex- 
cite, are restrained, and the whole discipline of the 
prison is eminently calculated to produce the same 
conviction, to conduct to the same result. Inter- 
course between the sexes, that extensive cause of 
moral contamination, is strictly prohibited ; the diet, 
a poM-erful agent on the human passions, is moderate 
and wholesome. Ardent spirits, the great source of 
his present punishment, are strictly denied him ; 
idleness, the parent of vice, is substituted by regular, 
constant labour, except during the short time appro- 
priated to meals and during the hours of sleep : and 
silence, which naturally produces reflection and atten- 
tion to duty, is strictly enjoined and enforced. The 
mild, but firm conduct of the keepers, who never car- 
ry weapons, banishes the irritating idea usually attach- 
ed to such characters, and transforms them into em- 
ployers superintending their workmen ; and lastly the 



* Alexander i\ Tytler, now lord Woodhouselee, a lord of 
Sessions in Scotland, has added an appendix to his life of lord 
Kaimes, to prove that " the foundation of criminal law is retribu- 
tive justice; its primai'v object the accomplishment of justice 
by the proper punishment of crimes. The prevention of crimes," 
he considers, " as a secondary evil. l"he pririciple of vengc 
ance," he says, " is founded injustice, and the resentment which 
the injury excites, ought in every case to be the measure of that, 
vengeance." Reformation of the criminal, does not enter into his 
views. 



184 JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 

religious counsel which is given on the sabbath, seals 
the whole, and proves to them that neither the law 
nor the officers appointed in pursuance ot it, have 
any other object in view, than their refoi-mation. The 
criminal therefore, makes his calculation, to conduct 
himsell^so as to command the good will of the keepers 
and inspectors, and merit recommendation for a dimi- 
nution of his time of servitude. This calculation, which 
all the convicts make, and the justness of which they 
occasionally see exemplified by the enviable reward 
being conferred upon the meritorious,* is one of the 
most powerful motives to good behaviour that could 
be held out : and if it be doubted whether gratitude 
for mild and kind treatment, has not some effect in 
causing obedience to command, and attention to 
work; facts enough have occurred to shew that they 
are not insensible to the influence of this quality of 
the mind. On one occasion, an inspector states, that 
when roused by the harshness of one keeper to make 
a desperate attempt to escape, they were prevented 
in part from succeeding, by another whom they re- 
spected, throwing himself in the way of the door, 
and whose life would have been sacrificed if they 
had persisted:! and that they are not insensible even 



* Petitions for pai'don, or even for shortening- the tirne of ser- 
vitude of a criminal, are made with extreme caution by the in- 
spectors. 

f An accidental visit to the prison by a humane man, former^ 
ly a keeper, has occasioned universal joy among- the convicts, 
who came forward to welcome him. In the fever of 1793, as many 
convicts offered, as were wanted to attend the sick at the city 
hospital. A man committed for burglary for seven years, solici- 
ted, and was appointed deputy steward of the hospital : a robber 
drove the pro\ision cart, during the whole epidemic, and be- 
ha\cd well. They were both pardoned. The women convicts 
g-ave up their bedsteads for the use of the sick, and even offered 
their bedding-. See Tiu-nbuU's visit to the prison. 



JAIL AND PENAL CODE. 185 

to the principles of honour, and of humanity, the 
facts detailed below, with other occurrences, afford 
ample proof. 

The following facts communicated by an Inspector, 
are to the same point. 

A convict, by name Jackson, who acknowledged 
himself to be an accomplished villain, and to have 
been in most of the jails of the United States, was 
sentenced to hard labour for several years in Phila- 
delphia. He gave much trouble, and at length escap- 
ed over the wall: he was pursued to Maryland, and 
on his way back, escaped again. He was finally ta- 
ken and lodged in the cells, where, full of health, 
and Avith a mind high toned, he boasted of his reso- 
lution, and of the impossibility of subduing his spirit, 
or of effecting any change in him. But after having 
been confined for some time, an alteration in his de- 
portment became evident, and he took occasion when 
the inspectors were going through the prison, to en- 
ter into conversation with them, and inquired how 
an old comrade* in iniquity, who had long been con- 
fined had obtained release from the cells. The reply 
was, that " he promised to behave well, and that he 
had been put upon his honour." Would you trust 
mine, he rejoined ? yes, it was said, if he would 
pledge it. He did so, was released, went cheerfully 
to work, and behaved with propriety during the re- 
mainder of his time, and never returned to Pennsyl- 
vania. 

Several states in the Union, have followed the ex- 
ample set by Pennsjlvania, Avith various degrees of 



* This man had been confined for six months in the cells, at 
the end of which time, being completely subdued, was let out 
upon a solemn pledg-e of sjood behaviour, and during the rest of 
his time g'ave no trouble. In this case the mild conversation, and 
Sjrioas advice of one of the inspectors powerfully assisted. 

0^2 



X86 LAW FOR DEBTORS. 

success. The principle however, just as It is, may 
be abused, and the objects in view of course defeated. 
A good system of regulations should at first be esta- 
blished, and afterwards adhered to, with rigid punc- 
tuality : pardons should never be thought of nor any 
diminution of the period of servitude recommended, 
unless after the most thorough conviction of the de- 
sired reformation having well progressed : inspectors 
zealous in the cause, and willing to devote their time 
thereto, should be continued in the direction, to in- 
struct the new members, otherwise impositions will 
be practised ; and to guard against the frailty of 
human nature, no inspector should be permitted to 
supply any article of provision for the convicts, or 
to derive any emolument directly or indirectly from 
the prison. 

The old prison stood at the S. W. corner of High 
and Third-streets, and extended on High-street 66 
feet, and 204 feet on Third-street, including, on the 
latter street, a yard and work-house. The buildings 
and wall were pulled down in 1784, by order of the 
supreme executive council of the state, and the 
^ound sold to private persons, for building lots. 

Law for Debtors. 

These have undergone frequent alterations. At 
present, they consist of the original act of 1729, 
with sundry supplements extending relief to cases 
not coming within its provisions. 

The basis of the jurisdiction given to the court by 
these acts, is an actual confinement under legal pro- 
cess : with this distinction, that if the debtor be con- 
fined in execution, he may apply immediately for re- 
lief, but if under mesne process, not until he has 
been thirty days in prison. Foreigners must remain 
six months in prison, if under execution for a debt 
above ^100. 



LAW FOR DEBTORS, 187 

The supreme court has jurisdiction in all cases 
where the debtor is confined by process from that 
court. The common pleas in cases under its own 
process, or the process of an alderman or justice of 
the peace. 

The mode of proceeding in both courts is nearly 
the same. The debtor applies by petition in term time, 
to either court, accompanying his petition with a 
schedide, on oath or affirmation, of all his property 
and effects, (wearing apparel, bedding and working 
tools, not exceeding five pounds in value in the 
whole, excepted) and a list of his creditors, with the 
nature and amount, as near as may be, of their debts. 
The court then appoints a time for hearing him and 
his creditors, of which the debtor is to give each of 
his creditors a notice : in the common pleas, at least 
fifteen days, and in the supreme court, at least ten 
days before the time appointed. The omission to 
give notice to any one of the creditors, however, 
only deprives the debtor of the benefit of the laws in 
respect to that creditor, not as to the others. 

At the time appointed, the court examines into 
the matter of the petition, hearing evidence ii' requir- 
ed, on the part of either debtor or creditors, or if 
they see cause, may adjourn to a future day, but this 
must be in the next succeeding term. If the court 
be satisfied that the debtor has fairly disclosed and 
surrendered all his estate, they are directed to dis- 
charge him; if on the other hand there be a " strong 
presumption of fraud," in concealing or fraudulently 
disposing of his property, he is to be remanded to 
prison by a judgment of the court for one year. The 
ogth or affirmation required to be taken by the debt- 
or, is in very full and extensive terms, that the ac- 
count delivered to the court, of his estate is just, and 
that since his confinement he has not disposed of it 
in any way, or any part thereof. The court and ere- 



188 LAW FOR DEBTORS. 

ditors being satisfied with his declaration, the court 
orders the property contained in the debtors sche- 
dule to be assigned to one or more of his creditors, 
in trust for the whole, which is done by a short in- 
dorsement on the back of the petition, and signed by 
the debtor, who is then discharged by proclamation, 
in open court. 

The effect of a discharge, thus obtained, is in the 
first place to release him froin custody : and in the 
next place, to exempt him thereafter Irom imprison- 
ment for debts owing before his discharge, to credit- 
ors to whom due notice has been given. But it only 
exempts his person. His future acquisitions of pro- 
perty remain liable to execution, as if he had not 
been discharged. 

By other acts of assembly, commonly called the 
bread acts, a provision is made for the support of 
poor debtors who are destitute of the means of sub- 
sistence, which sometimes works a discharge. These 
acts direct the inspectors of the public prison, to ex- 
amine into the condition of the debtors in confine- 
ment, and to make an allowance for food to each of 
such poor debtors as are incapable of maintaining him 
or herself, to be paid weekly by the plaintiff or plain- 
tiffs, at whose suit such debtor is confined, on the 
Monday of every week after ten days printed notice; 
upon failure, by the plaintiff or plaintiffs for the space 
of three days to comply with the requisition, the debt- 
or is entitled to be discharged ; and can never after- 
wards be arrested or imprisoned for the same debt. 
The first act in 1792, fixed the allowance at seven 
cents per day. An act lately passed, authorises the 
courts of common pleas, at the first term in everj^ 
year, to fix the allowance so to be made, at any sum 
not exceeding fourteen cents per day. It is fixed for 
the present year in the city and county of Philadel- 
phia, at twelve and a half cents a day. 



LAW FOR DEBTORS. 189 

Previously to the alteration of the penal law in 1 790, 
debtors and criminals, male and female, were confi- 
ned in the new prison in Walnut-street. But provi- 
sion was at that time made for appropriating the 
" house of correction" in Prune-street, solely to debt- 
ors. The grand jury of the countv regularly visits and 
reports the state ofthe debtors' apartment every three 
months ; and the inspectors of the prison are also 
bound to visit it weekly, and are authorised to make 
the necessary rules and regulations ior tht govern- 
ment of the house. The following regulations are 
now in force. 

1. The south part of the house shall be for the 
use of the keeper, his family, and assistants, and that 
part of the house north of the division wail, shall be 
allotted for the use of the prisoners. 

2. That the house be washed, once or twice a 
week during the warm weather, and at least once in 
two weeks, or oftener, if the weather permit, daring 
winter, and the -w-alls shall be white-washed as often 
as shall be deemed needful lor the health of the pri- 
soners. 

3. That the women prisoners shall be kept sepa- 
rate from the men, and at all times the most rigid 
prohibition of any kind of intercourse between them 
and the men prisoners be continued, and no men shall 
be admitted to their apartment, excepting the keeper, 
his assistants, the inspectors, or a physician, in case 
of any of the women being sick. 

4. No woman shall be permitted to go into any 
room where the men are prisoners, excepting the 
mother or wife of one of the prisoners, and not more 
than one such mother or wife at a time, unless in 
case of the sickness of a prisoner, and the physician 
orders a nurse. 

5. No game of address or hazard of any kind 
whatsoever, shall be admitted in the prison on any 



190 LAW FOR DEBTORS. 

account ; nor shall any implements of gaming be 
suffered to be in the prison at all. 

6. No kind of wines, spirituous liquors, porter* 
strong beer, nor cyder, nor any kind of drink stron- 
ger than small beer shall be permitted to the prisoners, 
in any quantity whatever, and the price charged to 
the prisoners for such small beer, &c. shall not ex- 
ceed six cents per quart, excepting from this rule 
what a physician shall prescribe for any prisoner in 
case of such prisoner being sick, and then only the 
kind and quantity shall be adiiiitted which is prescri- 
bed ior the sick person. 

7. No charge of money, or any equivalent for 
money under the name of Garnish, or any charge of 
the kind shall be suffered to be made in the prison, on 
account of any person lodging in any of the rooms 
allotted for the prisoners. 

8. No prisoner shall be suffered to come without 
the inner gate, unless called by the keeper, or his as- 
sistants, or an inspector. 

9. It shall be the duty of the keeper and his 
assistants, to see that no female remains in the rooms 
where the men are prisoners, after sunset. Also to 
examine every visitor, and see that no kind of liquor 
or drink, prohibited by these rules, be brought into 
the prison. 

10. No visitor shall be permitted to come in, or 
remain in the prison after sunset. And if any person' 
shall attempt to introduce into the prison, any kind' 
of liquor or drink prohibited by these rules, such 
liquor or drink shall be immediately destroyed, and 
the person who endeavoured to bring it in, shall be 
instantly turned out of doors, and never suffered to 
come in again as a visitor. 

11. That no visitor shall be admitted to the pri- 
son on the first day of the week, called the Sabbath 
day, unless to visit a prisoner who is sick. 



ELECTIONS. 191 

12. If any prisoner behave in a disorderly man- 
ner, and on being reprimanded by the keeper or his 
assistant, or an inspector, does not immediately con- 
duct himself or herself in a proper and respectful 
manner, such prisoner shall be confined separately 
from the rest, in a room appropriated for that pur- 
pose. 

The keeper of the debtor's apartment is appointed 
by the sheriff : his salary is ^500. 

Electio7is, 

The election for civil officers, takes place on the 
second Tuesday of October throughout the state. 
On the Friday next preceding the first Tuesday in 
October, the constables of the several wards, hav- 
ing given previous public notice of the time and 
places, hold elections for inspectors of elections. 
Return is made by the constables to the sheriff of 
the city and county, and a duplicate to the person 
chosen ; the inspectors assemble at nine o'clock in 
the forenoon ol the day of election, and choose judges 
of the election, who form a return oi the whole elec- 
tion of the city and county, and deliver said return to 
the sheriff; a duplicate of which, signed and sealed 
in the same manner, is deposited in the office of the 
prothonatory of the city and county. The sheriff is 
required to transmit said return within thirty days to 
the governor, who thereupon, (in case ot" representa- 
tives to congress) declares by proclamation, the names 
of the persons returned to him as duly elected ; but 
in the case of the election oi members of the legisla- 
ture, the certificate of the judges of the election to 
the individual chosen is sufficient. Judges, inspec- 
tors, and clerks of elections, are sworn or affirmed, to 
insure an impartial discharge of their duties, before 
}i entering thereon. 



X-gS ELECTIONS. 

By the constitution of the state, "every free man, 
of the age of twenty-two years, having resided in the 
state two years next before the election, and within 
that time paid a state or county tax, which shall have 
been assessed at least six months before the election, 
shall enjoy the rights of an elector ; sons of quali- 
fied persons as aforesaid, between the ages of twenty- 
one and twenty-two years, shall be entitled to vote, 
although they shall not have paid taxes." 

The following officers are chosen by the city, 
count}', and district. 

1. The city and county of Philadelphia, and coun- 
ty of Delaware, constitute one district, and elect three 
members of the house of representatives in the con- 
gress of United States. 

2. The city and county of Philadelphia, elect two 
representatives in the senate of the state legislature, 
for four years ; one county commissioner, one sheriff, 
and one coroner, for three years ; and three audi- 
tors.* 

3. The city elects five representatives in the state 
legislature, four persons as members of the select 
council, and twenty persons to compose the common 
council. 

4. The county of Philadelphia, elects six represen- 
tatives in the state legislature. The two persons, 
having the highest number of votes, for sheriff and 
coroner, are returned ; either of whom may be ap- 
pointed by the governor. The constitution prohibits 
any person from being twice chosen sheriff in any 
term of six years. 

The constitution provides that all elections by the 
people shall be by ballot. 



* These auditors examine the accounts of the county commis- 
sioners ; and of the county treasurer and sheriff, for the current 
year. 



KEVENUE. 193 

All elections are free and voluntary, and any elec- 
tor who shall receive any gift or reward for his vote, 
in meat, drink, money or otherwise, forfeits his right 
to elect for that time, and shall pay any sum not ex- 
ceeding fifty dollars, and suffer imprisonment for 
a time not exceeding six months, as the court of the 
county shall think proper to award. It may with 
truth be said, that although our suffrage is universal, 
no other influence is exerted except that of persua- 
sion ; the measure adopted by the friends of the can- 
didates for office in other countries, and in some 
of the United States, of keeping open house during 
an election, is unknown in Philadelphia, and it is be- 
lieved, throughout the state. 

Revenue and Expenditure, 

The permanent revenue of Philadelphia, which Is 
appropriated to city purposes, is derived from the 
following sources. 

1. Rent of stalls in the public markets in High 
street and Second street : of the cellar under the 
city hall : of lots, and a house on the west side of 
Schuylkill : of the public scales : of public wharves; 
and of vacant public squares. 

2. Oi stock in the Schuylkill permanent bridge, at 
the west end of High street ; and public stock. 

3. From the use of the Schuylkill water. 

4. From whanage on the public landings, on Del- 
aware and Schuylkill. 

5. From shares in the water loan. 

6. Sales of street dirt, and paving over private wa- 
ter pipes. 

7. Taxes — Besides the foregoing, occasional re- 
venue arises from Mayor's fines and penalties ; and 
from lighting private lamps, which in 1 809, amount- 
ed to S224 56 



194 llEVENUE. 

In 1809, the following expenses were incurred. 

1. Purchase ofpavingstones, and paving Sl9,187 I9i 

2. Repairing unpaved streets . 2,084 45i 

3. Cleansing the city generally, . 8,219 98^ 

4. Repairing and cleansing docks and sewers, 709 56 

5. Lighting and watching the city, 19,025 66 

6. Pumps and wells, . . 3,007 11 

7. Regulating ascents and descents of "> 

streets, J ^^" 

8. Salaries to the officers of the corporation, 9,450 

9. Office expenses of the city commissioners, 102 40 

10. Menial services in the markets, 420 

11. Incidental expenses of councils, 231 10 

12. Constables for keeping order on^ 
sabbaths, and attending mayor's l 434 
court, J 

13. Repairing over water pipes, 153 97 

14. Repairs and improvements of the 1 a^qc ^i_ 
city property, J ' "" ^ 

i5. One vear's interest on water and") ^ ^^^ 

city loans, j ^'^^^ 

16. Repairs and improvements at wa- 1 j- ^qq 
ter works, laying pipes, he. J ' 

17. Making culverts, . . 14,652 30 

18. Contingent expenses authorized! m ^o 
by councils, J. 4Jl 48 

gl24,865 55 
'Die appropriations for the foregoing purposes, 
for the year 1811, amount to gl 33,000 

From the report of committee of the select coun- 
cil on the revenue of the last year, it appears, that the 
actual expenditure ior the several objects for. which 
appropriations had been made in 1810, amounted on 
the 31st December last, to , gl25,600 38 



SINKING FUND. 195 

That the debts owing on the same 
account amounted to . . or,930 79 

That the interest on the temporary 
loans amounted to . . 966 57 

That there is to be paid to the tax 
fund of the year 1810, this sum bor- 
rowed from it by an ordinance of the 
16th July, . . . 2,000 

Debts owing, - . 1,118 72 



Sl67,676 46 
Amount of taxes, rental and loans, 147,67 4G 



Leaving an nrtual deficiency of 
funds amounting to . . $20,000 

Borrowed by ordinances of councils 
in 1810, . » , 30,000 

Amount of expenditure beyond re- 
venue, . . . S50,000 

Of the above sum, ^14,000 were borrowed to erect 
the market-house in High-street, an object which by 
increasing the income of the corporate estate, fur- 
nishes the means of reimbursing the cost : one 
loan of S25,000, constituting a part of the above 
S50,000has been paid off. 

Sinking" Fund. 

In 1807 the debt of the city, arising chiefly from 
the expense of the water works amounted to 310,000 
dollars, which was payable at different dates, at the 
pleasure of the corporation. About ^50,000 were due 
to the banks. In order to reduce this debt, councils 
resolved in the above year, to borrow ^50,000, which 
was not redeemable before 1830: this sum was pro- 
cured at 2 1-2 per cent, under par, and was applied 



196 TAXES. 

to pay the banks. The profit of 2 1-2 per cent, toge- 
ther with S5,000 arising out of the annual income of 
the corporate estates of the city, were constituted a 
fund, to be stiled " the sinking fund," to be applied 
to the purchase and redemption of the several species 
of stock, constituting the funded debt of the city. 

This fund is directed to be invested by the treasu- 
rer, with the approbation of the mavor, in the six 
per cent stock of the United States, until it shall 
amount to a sum sufficient to pay off a whole loan, 
when it is to be sold, and the proceeds thereof, ap- 
plied to the payment of such loan, and the certifi- 
cates, or other evidences of the loan so paid, are to 
be transferred to, and become part of the sinking 
fund. 

During the last year, 1810, the wants of the city 
obliged councils to borrow ^50,000 more, as already 
stated ; and to prevent thepostponement of the redemp- 
tion, they resolved to apply !S2,000, in addition to the 
sinking fund ; by which measure, notwithstanding 
the late increase of debt, the redemption will take place 
even before the contemplated period of final extinc- 
tion. The sinking fund now amounts to S3 1,000 and 
upwards. 

Taxes — Modes of Assesshig: 

The system of taxation pursued in Philadelphia, is 
the same with that of the state at large, and was es- 
tablished by an act of the legislature, passed in the 
year 1799. 

Every third year, one or more assessors are cho- 
sen by the people at the general election in October, 
who, for the faithful performance of their duty, are 
required to take an oath or affirmation, before a ma- 
gistrate or judge, and to file a certified copy of the 
same in the office of the county commissioners : and 



TAXES. 197 

on receipt of precepts issued by the said commission- 
ers, are to proceed to take an account of the 
names of all taxable inhabitants within their town- 
ships, wards, or districts; and of all lands, houses, 
mills, manufactories, improvements of every kind, 
ground rents, all negro and mulatto slaves, all cattle 
above four years old ; all offices and posts of profit, 
trades and occupations, (ministers of the gospel and 
school-masters only excepted) and all single free 
men above the age of twenty-one years, who do not 
follow any occupation. The enumeration having been 
made, the assessors are to assemble, and value the 
aforesaid property, for what they think it will bona 
fide sell for in ready money : and rate the profits of 
all offices and occupations at their discretion ; but no 
tax shall exceed the rate of one cent in every dollar 
of the adjusted valuation of the property : and the 
rate for any occupation, or for any single freeman, 
shall not exceed ten dollars in one year. 

The assessors retui-n the names of two reputable 
citizens, freeholders, of the ward or district, to the 
commissioners, who are required to appoint one of 
them to be the collector, by whom the citizens are 
notified of the rate at which they have been assessed, 
and of the day of appeal before the commissioners. 
I'his regulation gives an opportunity for redress, in- 
case of the assessment having been made too high. 
These appeals being over, the collection goes on, and 
the money as fast as collected, is paid into the hands 
of the city or county treasurers. Provision is made for 
compelling payment ; for delinquency of collectors ; 
compensation to them ; and the settlement and pub- 
lication of accounts. In Philadelphia, the city com- 
missioners, board of health, and guardians of the 
poor, appoint their own collectors. 

The following taxes are annually collected in the 
city of Philadelphia. Their amount is for 1810, 
R 2 



m TAXES, 

City and Personal — Appropriated to city pur- 
poses,^ .... Sl03,63r 50 

County — Appropriated to county purposes, 

^74,541 42 

Health — Appropriated to the expense of the La- 
zaretto, and health establishment. It must never ex- 
ceed g40,000 . . . S20,000 

Poor — For the support of the poor, 878,000 

These two last taxes are assessed on the city and 
county jointly. 

The monies collected in the city are paid to the 
" city treasurer," an officer who is annually appointed 
by the select and common councils in joint meeting. 
His duty is to make out a rental of the real estate 
of the city, to receive all the monies of the corpora- 
tion, and to make out an account of all his receipts 
and expenditures every three months, for the use of 
the mayor and councils. The accounts of the money 
arising from the city estate, are to be kept separate 
from that received for taxes : and the monies re- 
ceived by him are to be kept in bank, in his name, as 
treasurer. He is required to give bond with two 
sureties to the amount of g 16,000 for the faithful 
performance of his duty. His compensation is one 
per cent, upon all monies received by him. A full 
statement of his accounts is annually laid before the 
city councils and published. The office is at present 
very ably filled by Mr. G A. Baker. 

The county ta;xes are paid into the hands of the 
county treasurer, an officer who is appointed by the 
county commissioners, and changed triennially. His 
compensation is one and a quarter per cent, upon all 
monies received. No money is paid by him, except 
upon the orders of the county commissioners. The 
following is the account of expenditures by the coun- 
ty commissioners during the year 1810. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 



19^ 



Public Landings, N. Liberties 




!Sl,912 8 


Criminal department 




469 6 


Debtor's department 




1,228 33 


Bridges and causeways, 




36,166 90 


Public roads 




r,259 51 


Attorney-general, clerks of courts 
fees, jurors. 


}■ 


10,849 18 


Sheriff expenses over his receipts 




1,616 27 


Public schools 




7,724 81 


Coroner's fees 




1,279 54 


Militia exempt fines 




60 74 


Assessing county tax 




1,539 53 


Commissioners and clerks 




2,966 66 


Election expenses 




919 91 


Contingents 




1,939 51 



Total . §74,215 76 

The treasurers of the " Board of Health," and of 

the " Guardians of the Poor," receive the proceeds 

of the health, and poor taxes, and disburse them 

agreeably to the orders of their respective boards. 



Religious Societies. — Sivedes. 

As already mentioned, the first church built on 
the west side of the Delaware, was on Tinnicum 
island, by the Swedes, and concecrated September 
4th, 1646. Their increasing numbers from emigra- 
tion, and natural causes, and the extension of their 
settlement, up the Delaware, and Schuylkill, requi- 
ring in a few years, a more convenient and central 
place of worship, a block house was erected on the 
shore of the Delaware, near to where the present 
Swedish church stands, in Southwark, and was con- 
secrated in the summer of 1677. By that time, the 
Swedes had settled as far up as Pennipeck, and Ne- 



200 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

shaminy, the falls of Schuylkill, and through the 
peninsula or neck, below where Philadelphia now 
stands, in Wicocoa, Moyanaensing, and Passajung, 
in all about twenty families. The present Swedish 
church was consecrated 2d July, 1700, and for ma- 
ny years, was the only place of worship for the fo- 
reign emigrants, on both sides of the Delaware and 
Schuylkill. For nearly fifty years, divine worship 
was performed in the Swedish language. The pre- 
sent minister is the learned and Rev. Dr. N. Collin. 

The Swedes have also a church in Kingsessing, 
about six miles from the city, and one in Merion 
township, Philadelphia county, of both which Dr. 
Collin is rector. 



The first meetings of the society of Friends, were 
held at the house of Thomas Fairlamb, at Shaka- 
mexunk,now called Kensington, in 1681. In 1682, a 
frame building was erected for the purpose, at the Cen- 
tre Square. In the same year regular meetings were 
held at Darby. In 1698, a meeting house was built 
at the S. W. corner of Second and High-streets, 
which was pulled down in 1755, and another one 
erected, 75 feet by 55, and 30 high, with galleries, 
and held 1500 persons. It was pulkd down in 1808, 
the ground sold, and the present houses erected. 

At present, there are three places of worship be- 
longing to this society in Philadelphia. 

Free fakers. 

A party of the society of Friends, v^ho differed 
from the general society, chiefly in thinking it law- 
ful to take up arms in defence of American liberty. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 201 

and in affirming allegiance to the United States, sepa- 
rated from the main body of Friends, about the year 
1776. By the help of a general contribution of the 
citizens, they erected a place of worship, in 1783, at 
the corner of Fifth and Mulberry streets. It is 48 by 
36 feet, and two stories high. 

This society is styled " Whig, or Free Quakers." 
They pi'ofess the principles of quakerism, except in 
discipline. They allow their members to think and 
act for themselves, and inflict no censures, appre- 
hending it to be sufficient that they are amenable to 
the laws of the country. 

Episcopal Churches, 

It appears from Thomas's brief account of Penn- 
sylvania,* that the Episcopalians had a church, or 
place of worship of some kind, in Philadelphia, so 
early as 1698. At present there are four churches: 
Christ Church, St. Peter's and St. James's, and St. 
Pauls. The three first are united in one act of incor- 
poration, and governed by one vestry. St. Paul's is 
regulated by its own vestry. 

The ministry in the said united churches has been 
as follows. 

The earliest settled minister of Christ church, and 
while the former building stood, was the Rev. Evan 
Evans, who was sent over by the bishop of London, 
in 1700; and by whose labours the first episcopal 
congregations in Pennsylvania are supposed to have 
been formed. King William allowed him ^^50 ster- 
ling, a year.f Mr. Evans appears to have been in 
England in the year 1707, and to have been then 



* London, 1698. l2mo. 
f Humphrey's Hist. Account of the society for propagating the 
gt)spel: p. 146. 



209 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

complimented with the degree of doctor in divinity^ 
because ot his exertions in America, and especially 11 
among the settlers from Wales. He returned to the il 
province : but in the year 1718, he removed to Ma- 
ryland ; being presented by the governor of that pro- 
vince to the living ol St. George's parish, then in the 
county of Baltimore, and now in that of Harford. 

After the removal of Dr. Evans, there was no 
stationary minister ; until the Rev. Mr. Vicary was 
sent over by the bishop of London, in 1719. His con- 
nexion with the congregation was dissolved in 1723; 
when they were again without a supply, until the ar- 
rival of the Rev. Archibald Cummings, who was sent 
by the bishop of London, in 1726. 

In 1742, the Rev. Mr. Cummings being deceased, 
the Rev. Dr. Robert Jenney arrived from Eng- 
land, under an appointment fi-om the bishop of 
London ; and the Rev. Amos Ross, who had offici- 
ated from the time of the death of the former in- 
cumbent, was appointed assistant minister, but re- 
signed his place in the next year. 

In 1746, the Rev. William Sturgeon was settled as 
assistant minister to Dr. Jenney. 

In 1759, the principal minister being disabled from 
officiating, by age and infirmities, another assistant 
minister was chosen, the Rev. Jacob Duche. 

In 1765, St. Peter's church being then built, the 
two churches received from the proprietaries of 
Pennsylvania, a charter of incorporation, by which 
they are contemplated as one body, with the ^same 
rector and vestry. 

After the decease of Di'. Jenney, in 1758, the du- 
ties of the churches were discharged by the assistant 
ministers only, until the year 1762, when the Rev. 
Richard Peters was chosen rector ; this being the 
title annexed to the station of minister, and recog- 
nised by the charter of incorporation. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 203 

In the year 1772, the Rev. Thomas Coombe and 
the Rev. William White were chosen assistant mi- 
nisters. Mr. Sturgeon, one ol these already mention- 
ed, having departed this life not long before. 

On the decease of the Rev. Dr. Peters, in the 
year 1775, the Rev. Jacob Duche was chosen rec- 
tor, who retired from this country to England, to- 
wards the close of the following year. In the year 
1778, the Rev. Mr. Coombe also retired to England. 

In the year 1779, the Rev. William White was 
chosen rector. The Rev. Robert Blackwell was cho- 
sen assistant minister, in 1780. The Rev. Joseph G. 
Bend was also chosen an assistant in 1788; and, re- 
signing his charge, removed to Baltimore in 1791. 
After which, the Rev. James Abercrombie was cho- 
sen in 1794. 

In the year 1810, the charter of incorporation was 
enlarged by the legislature of Pennsylvania, so as to 
comprehend the new church of St. James. The 
yearly value of the real estate of the three churches, 
is not to exceed six thousand dollars. 

The episcopal churches in the United States, hold 
the same faith as the church of England, with the ex- 
ception of the Athanasian creed. The thirty-nine arti- 
cles, with accommodation to the local circumstances 
of this country, were recognised as the faith of the 
said church by the convention of the clergy and laity 
that met in Philadelphia in September, 1801. The 
book of common prayer, which is now the standard 
for the church in the United States, was established 
in the autumn of 1789. It had been previously propo- 
sed by a convention of the church, in seven states, in 
1785. At the former date, there were also sanction- 
ed the book of psalms in metre, with twenty-seven 
hymns; to which thirty more were added by the con- 
vention of 1808. The service for the institution of 
ministers into churches or parishes, was established 



204 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

at the same time. The book of consecration and 
ordination of bishops, priests and deacons, was esta- 
blished by the convention of 1792. The form of the 
consecration of a church was established by the con- 
vention of 1799.* 

When application was made to the prelates of Eng- 
land for oi-dination of the divines, who had been re- 
commended by the American convention of clergy- 
men and laity, in 1785 ; an act of parliament was ap- 
plied for and granted, to empower them to consecrate 
bishops beyond the seas, without their taking the 
usual oaths. Accordingly, the Rev. Dr. White, of 
Petmsylvania, and the Rev. Dr. Prevost, of New 
York, were ordained on the 4th of February, 1787, 
by the archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Moore ; assist- 
ed by the archbishop of York, and bishops of Bath 
and Wells, and bishop of Peterborough. 

Baptists. 

The first settlers of the Baptist persuasion who 
arrived in Philadelphia, came from Radnorshire in 
England, and Killaraey in Ireland, about the year 
1686, and settled on the banks of Pennipeck creek, 
ten miles N. E. of Philadelphia. The Rev. Mr. Don- 
gan from Rhode Island, had settled two years be- 
fore, at Coldspring, above Bristol, on the Delaware, 
where he gathered a church, the grave yard of 
which alone now remains. He baptized and or- 
dained Elias Keach, an English youth, who settled 
at Pennipeck. In the year 1686, Mr. John Watts 
came to Philadelphia, from the county ot Kent, Eng- 
land, and was baptized at Pennipeck, the next 
year. In 1698, nine persons assembled in Philadel- 
phia and "did coalesce into a church for the commu- 

* See Plowman and Tunner's elegant edition of the Eook of 
Common Prayer. Pluladelpliia, 1805. 



, 



KEUGIOUS SOCIETIES. 205 

nion of saints, having the Rev. John Watts to their 
assistance." The place where they met was the N. W. 
corner of Second-street and Chesnut-street, in a 
frame store house, built by the Barbadoes trading 
company, on a lot owned by them. Hence it was 
known by the name of " Barbadoes lot." The Pres- 
byterians also worshipped with them, until they " in a 
manner drove the Baptists away."* They then held 
worship in the brew house of Anthony Morris, near 
the draw-bridge, until 1707, when by invitation of a 
sect composed of seceders trom the Quakers, under 
George Keith, they removed their worship to a 
house erected upon the site of their present building 
in Second near Mulberry-street. At present they are 
a numerous congregation. Their faith and order may 
be seen in the " confession, catechism and treatise of 
discipline," which they adopted in their association 
held at Philadelphia in the year 1742. By these it ap- 
pears that they are " Independents with reference to 
church government, and Calvinists v/ith respect to 
doctrines ;"f with this exception, that they cleem it 
essential in the ordinance of baptism, to immerse the 
body in water, and not to periorm this ceremony of 
admittance into the visible church, unless the sub- 
ject is a professed believer, and has arrived at the 
years of discretion, or is able to comprehend its 
meaning and lorce. The place for performing the 
operation of immersion, is in the Schuylkill, at the 
bottom of Spruce-street. 



* Edwards says that " the Presbyterians then began to dis- 
cover an unwillingness that Baptist ministers should preach iii 
the house," and having evaded a conference, apj ointed on the 
subject, the Baptists resolved to meet apart until they received 
an answer. — Morgan Edwards's AJateii^ds towaids a history of 
the American Baptists. Philadelphia, 1770. p. 45—108* 

f Edwards's Materials, &c. p. 6. 



2d6 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

It is computed, that in North America, thele arc 
2000 Baptist churches, and 150,000 communicants. 

The regularly settled baptist ministers in succes- 
sion, have been, since 1746, Jenkins Jones, 1746 to 
1761 ; Ebenezer Kinnersly, 17^3 to 1754 ; Morgan 
Edwards, 1761 to 1771 ; William Rogers, Thomas 
Ustick, William Staughton. 

Presbyterians. 

About April, 1695, the Rev. John Watts, the 
Baptist minister at Pennepack, consented, at the re- 
quest of some friends, to preach at Philadelphia, 
«very other Lord's day. Among the hihabitants, 
there were, at that time, some Baptists and Indepen- 
dents (the latter were also denominated Presbyte- 
rians,) both of whom were occasionally visited by 
ministers of their respective denominations : and 
they occupied in common, for the purpose of wor- 
ship, the store house of the Barbadoes company. In 
the autumn of 1698, the Rev. Jedediah Andrews, 
came from New England to Philadelphia, and offi- 
ciated as an Independent minister. The Indepen- 
dents had by this time, increased in numbers, and 
after the removal of the Baptists, continued to meet 
at the house on Barbadoes lot, until they procured ano- 
ther in High-street, where they erected a small house 
for worship in 1704, which was enlarged in 1729, 
about which time they adopted the presbyterial form 
of government. A part ol them who adopted the pe- 
culiar tenets of the eloquent Whitfield, withdrew in 
1742, and occupied the house in Fourth, near Mul- 
berry-street, which had been recently erected by the 
friends of that preacher, and there they remained until 
the year 1750, when they founded the second pres- 
byterian church at the N. W. corner of Arch and 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES, 2Q> 

Third-Streets. Their declared principles are set forth 
in " the constitution of the presbyterian church in the 
United States of America." They have expressed 
themselves in a very liberal manner about church go- 
vernment. " It is absolutely necessar}^," say they, 
" that the govei-nmcnt of the church, be under some 
certain definite form, and we hold it to be expedient, 
and agreeable to scripture, and the practice of the 
primitive christians, that the church be governed by 
congregational, presbyterial, and synodical assem- 
blies. In full consistency with this belief, we em- 
brace, in the spirit of charity, those christians who 
differ from us in opinion or practice on these sub- 
jects." Baptists are accordingly sometimes employed 
by them to preach. Watts's psalms, improved by Bar- 
low, are generally used in their churches. 

The general assembly of the Presbyterian church, 
meets annually in May, in Philadelphia, and publish 
their proceedings. 

Catholics, 

Previously to the year 1733, the few Catholics v/ho 
then resided in Philadelphia, held meetings for reli- 
giovis worship in a private dwelling, and were occa- 
sionally visited by ministers from the catholic colony 
of Maryland, who were regularly appointed by the 
Pope. In the year just mentioned, the Rev. Mr. Cray- 
ton, was formally commissioned by the proper au- 
thority in Maryland, to settle in Philadelphia ; and by 
him a lot was purchased near JFourth-street, and 
south of Walnut-street, and a small chapel erected, of 
one story. It was dedicated to St. Joseph, and after- 
wards enlarged as the society increased in numbers. 
There are now four chapels in Philadelphia, and it is 
computed that there are filteen thousand members in 
the city and suburbs. The ministers in succession, after 



208 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

Mr. Crayton, were Messrs. Lewis, Harding, Farmta;, 
Fleming, and others. The present bishop is the Rev. 
Mr.Egan, who was consecrated at Baltimore, iul8l0. 

Gerynan Lutherans, 

The German JLvitherans settled early in the laist 
century in the lower parts of the state of Delaware, 
under the Swedes, while the reformed church was 
established in New York, on Hudson's river, under 
the Dutch. The first Lutheran church in Philadel- 
phia, was erected in 1743, in Fifth-street, above 
Mulberry-street. 

The articles of faith in this church are contained in 
the unaltered Augsburgh confession : in the doctrine 
of the Lord's supper, it professes to adhere strictly 
to the very original words of our Saviour, in the in- 
stitution of the sacrament. 

The ministers in succession have been, H. Muhlen- 
berg, Brunholz, Heinzlcman, liandschuh, Schulze, 
Kunze, H. Muhlenberg, jun. Helmuth, Schmidt. 

Lentil a few years since, divine service was perfor- 
med in the German language ; when in consequence 
of the increase in number of the descendants of the 
Germans who did not learn to speak the language of 
their parents, an attempt was made to have divine 
service performed at least one half of the sabbath in 
the English language, but this having been resisted, a 
laige party withdrew, and erected the elegant church 
of St. John, in Race-street, in which the service is 
performed altogether in the English language. 

Gerincni Calvitiists. 

These came from Germany nearly about the same 
time as the Lutherans, and both usually held their 
meetings for religiovis purposes in the same house in 
Pennsylvania*: there being very little difi'erence be-.- 



TRELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 2^9 

tween the doctrines maintained by them. In the year 
1743, the Calvinists built a church in Sassafras- 
street, which was pulled down, when the present one 
was erected. They adhere to the Hiedelbergh cate- 
chism, and the confession of faith of the reformed 
Dutch church. They observe holidays, and have or- 
gans in their churches. They practise confirmation 
of their young people, to whom they dispense the 
Lord's supper. There are two congregations in Phi- 
ladelphia : in one of which the service is performed 
in the German language, and in the other (recently 
erected) in English. The latter is styled the " Evan- 
gelical Church." The Rev. Mr. Helfenstein, is the^ 
minister of the Dutch, and the Rev. Mr. Birch, the 
pastor of the English congregation. 

Moravians^ or United Brethren* 

The first congregation of this amiable sect that 
Settled in North America, came from Berthelsdorf, 
a village belonging to count Zinzendorf, in upper 
Luzatia. When expelled from the dominions of the 
elector of Saxony, they resolved to go to America, 
and the trustees of the colony of Georgia, havings 
oflFered, through the count, to grant them a tract of 
land, they set out in November, 1734. 

The written instructions given to them by the 
count, were, " that they should submit themselves to 
the wise direction and guidance of God in all circum- 
stances J seek to preserve liberty of conscience ; avoid 
all religious disputes, and always keep in view that 
call, given to them by God himself, to preach the 
gospel of Jesus Christ to the heathen ; and further, 
that they should endeavour as much as possible to earn, 
their own bread,'''' These principles they have ever 
Strictly followed. 

3= % 



210 REllGIOUg SOCIETIES. 

Having met in London with general Oglethorpe, 
the governor of Georgia, they were provided with all 
the necessaries for their voyage to his beloved colo- 
ny, where they safely arrived in 1735, and settled on 
the Ogeeche river : here they obtained the character 
which they so justly deserved, of a peaceful, pious 
people. Another colony arrived in the course of the 
following summer, and settled in Savannah. But in 
the year 1738, upon the attack of the colony by the 
Spaniards from Florida, they were forced to leave 
their flourishing plantations, (having early declared 
that they would not be concerned in war) and retired 
to Pennsylvania: part came in 1738, and the remain- 
der in 1740. They settled at Bethlehem. In 1741, 
count Zinzendorf arrived in Pennsylvania, and after 
much pious labour, particularly among the Indians, 
returned to Europe in 1743. In 1742, the brethren 
erected a church in Philadelphia, in an alley running 
north and south from Mulberry-street to Sassafras- 
street, between Second and Third-streets, and hence 
Called Moravian alley. The church is 40 feet by 
30 feet, and will hold about 300 persons. It has 
au organ. 

The principles of the Moravians, are contained in 
"an exposition of christian doctrine, as taught in 
the protestant church of the United Brethren, or Uni- 
tas Fratrum, by A. G. Spangenburg, with a preface 
by Benjamin La Trobe." They do not differ in the 
great cardinal points from other protestant sects. 
They hold occasional *' love feasts" in their churches, 
for the purpose of promoting friendship, mutual 
love and kindness among one another. The aliment 
is of the most simple nature. Wine is indeed some- 
times used, but with the most rigid attention to 
temperance. They deem the propagation among the 
heathen, of the means of salvation by the Redeemer, 
a priajary objeet of duty ; and their zts^ in thrs^rfCS- 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES^ 211 

pect, is truly astonishing. Every part of the globe 
has been visited — nay, settled by their missionaries ; 
even the inhospitable shores of Greenland and Labra- 
dor ; and the most unhealthy climates of Atrica and 
Asia have received the benefit of their pious labours : 
the frontiers of North America, which even at the 
present moment are the hunting ground of the sava- 
ges, were settled by them more than half a century 
ago, by a colony under that venerable apostle, the late 
Rev. Mr. Zeisberger, andothers. No danger however 
great, no privations, or personal sufferings, however 
severe, deterred them from steadily pursuing their 
benevolent designs : and although the horrors of a 
predatory war carried on against the inoffensive con- 
verts from heathen darkness, by men who disgraced 
the name of Christians, often interrupted the tranqui- 
lity of their settlements, and occasioned their perse- 
cution ; yet they availed themselves of the first oppor- 
tunity to recommence their labours, and have Joyful- 
ly seen their example followed by other denomina- 
tions of Christians. 

The members of this society are few in number, in 
Philadelphia, when compared with those of other 
sects. The head of their government is Hernhutt, in 
Germany ; the subordinate power of their church, 
bishop Loskiel, resides at Bethlehem, in Pennsylva* 



Associate Churchy 

Is composed of those who are commonly denomi- 
nated seceders, which name was given to, or assu- 



* For a full account of the labours of the Moravians in North 
America, see "the history of the mission of the Unitas Fratrum 
among the Indians of North America, by the Rev. Mr. LoskieF. 
London, 1794." 



2lS ItELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

med by those mmisters, who were expelled from the 
church of Scotland about the year 1732, for having 
testified against some of the public evils of the na- 
tional church, particularly the settlement of ministers 
by patronage. Sundry persons of this communion, 
having emigrated to America, and with some others, 
being dissatisfied with the Presbyterian judicatories 
in America, made application to the associate synod 
of Edinburgh, for a supply of ministers. Two were 
accordingly sent, in 1754, and with ruling elders, 
constituted the " Associate Presbytery of Pennsylva- 
nia." The principles and form of government of the 
associate church, are those of the Presbyterian per- 
suasion. There is only one congregation of this so- 
ciety in Philadelphia, and this is vacant. The late 
Rev. Mr. Marshall was the minister. They belong 
to the party known in Scotland by the name Anti- 
burgers. 

Associate Reformed Churchy 

Was formed in 1782, by a union between simdry 
ministers of the " Associate Presbytery," and others 
known by the name of " Covenanters," and who 
were of the same principles with those who take on 
that designation in Scotland. The members of the 
associate synod, who were opposed to the union, be- 
ing in the minority, were denied the permission to 
enter their protest, they therefore withdrew and ap- 
pealed to the associate synod in Scotland, by whom 
the conduct of the minority was approved, but the 
members of the two presbyteries who formed the 
union, denounced the minority as schismatics, and 
assuming the name of the " Associate Reformed 
Church in North America," published in 1799, their 
constitution and standards, with sundry appendixes, 
Bot comprised in the terms of their communion. 



PvELIGlOUS SOCIETIES. 21? 

I'heir faith does not difFer from that of the general 
assembly of the Presbyterian church. The former de^- 
nominations of which this body was originally com- 
posed, being still in existence, they may be said to 
have formed a new church. There is only one con- 
gregation of this society in Philadelphia. 

Presbyterian Covenanters^ or Reformed Presbytery, 

This society was formed in Scotland, about the year 
1 744, by a member of the " Associate Presbytery of 
Scotland," who, notwithstanding the alteration of cir- 
cumstances, did not render an adoption of the mea- 
sure necessary, required that body to swear the na- 
tional league and covenant," in the very words in 
which thev were originally framed one hundred years 
before; -their refusal to do so, together with their cen- 
sure of the principles of a party who denied alle- 
giance to the civil government of the country, be- 
cause certain religious qualifications, were in their 
opinions, necessary to insure due respect to the autho- 
rity of rulers, induced him to withdraw, and to as- 
sociate with others, under the name of the " Reform- 
ed Presbytery." They profess to be the only true fol- 
lowers of the martyrs who suffered for conscience 
sake, under the intolerant reign of Charles the Ilnd. 
and James. This society consists at present of only 
six or seven ministers, with congregations in differ- 
ent parts of the United States. The plan upon which 
thev propose to exhibit their principles to the world, 
embraces three parts: historical, declaratory, and ar- 
gumentative. The two first have been already pub- 
lished ; the argumentative is to appear hereafter. 
The declaratory part merely contains principles of 
universal application, iounded vipon the scriptures, 
and simply stated. The argumentative part has been 
iTi some measure anticipated by the zeal of two of the 



^1.4 RELIGIOUS SOCIETiESt. 

members of this communion. According to this sect, 
*' Magistracy flows immediately irom God, and is 
predicated upon his universal dominion over all na- 
tions. Civil rulers ought to exercise their office, not 
only in civil matters, but in matters purely religious, 
by punishing false worshippers, heretics, and con- 
temners oi church government." 

The}-^ allow that allegiance is " due to a govern- 
ment when morally constituted," a fact of which they 
themselves are to be the judges; but to a constitution, 
which they consider to be immoral, they owe no al- 
legiance. In this view they include the constitutions 
of Great Britain, of the United States, and of Penn- 
sylvania. That of the United States, is said to " give 
support to the enemies of the Redeemer, to admit 
to its honours and emoluments, Jews, Mahometans, 
Deists and Atheists : to establish that system of rob- 
bery, by which men are held in slavery, despoiled of 
liberty, property and protection;" and, finally it is de- 
clared to be " oppressive and impious." The consti- 
tution of Pennsylvania is said to " support and le- 
gally establish gross heresy, blasphemy and idolatry." 
For these reasons they refuse submission to their 
authority, and abstain from swearing allegiance 
thereto. 

They consider " oaths as acts of homage, perform- 
ed voluntarily to the Supreme Being, and by no 
means a recognition of the magistrate's authority to 
administer them." They are prohibited from serving 
on juries, because, " a juror voluntarily places himself 
upon oath, under the direction of a law which is im- 
moral," and ior the same reason, they abstain from 
voting at elections. They believe it a duty to per- 
form the act oi public covenantmg. Notwithstanding 
the above doctrines, they profess to receive the 
Westminster confession of laith without limitation, 



BELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 215' 

©r explication of that part of it that describes the 
magistrate's power in matters of religion. There is 
one congregation of this society in Philadelphia. 

Methodists, 

This sect, in North America, was first formed 
into a society at New York, in the year 1766, by 
Philip Embury, a preacher from Ireland, and spread 
rapidly through the country. At present it pro- 
bably includes more members than any other deno- 
mination of christians. Their church government is 
episcopal, and their doctrines are nearly similar to 
those ot other protestant sects. Erroneous notions of 
this society have been entertained in consequence of 
Mr. Wesley expressing his view of sanctification by 
the word perfection. Their discipline is very strict; 
and not only requires the most rigid and frequent 
confession of sins of omission, and commission, one 
to another, at their private meetings for praying, but 
descends to the regulation of their conduct in their 
general intercourse with the world, to the prevention 
of idleness, the avoiding temptation, and to the re- 
gulation of dress. The distribution of good books is 
considered an important duty, and for this purpose, 
a fund is created, and a " superintendant oi the book 
concern" appointed, who is empowered to regulate 
the publications, and all other parts of the business. 
They deem it a duty to travel through the country 
to preach to those who have no stated minister, and 
for this purpose the bishops appoint a certain num- 
ber of itinerant preachers, who make extensive tours, 
and by whom stated meetings for worship are held 
in the woods, at which thousands attend. A branch 
of this society, who object to the episcopal form of 
the church government of the Wesley Methodist!,, 
liave Jissumed the name of the Christian Church, 



316 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

The exertions of this society have been attended 
with the most beneficial effects in the reformation of 
the lower order ol mankind ; and districts could be 
pointed out, not remote from the capital, which from 
being formerly proverbial for licentiousness, have be- 
come, through its influence, exemplary for morality. 
In one case, this change was chiefly owing to the la- 
bours of an individual, himself a mechanic, among a 
set of the most immoral men. By his influence, the 
thoughtless were alarmed, the absolutely wicked 
were reformed, and a regular religious society Was 
constituted. There are four Methodist meeting hou- 
ses for whites, and two for blacks in Philadelphia. 

Vniversalists, 

A society believing in the final and universal re- 
demption of mankind, have existed for many years 
in Philadelphia. They have one church. 

Unitarians* 

Their leading tenets are a denial of the catholic 
doctrine of the Trinity, and an adherence to the lite- 
ral sense of those passages of scripture which assert 
the unity of God and the humanity of Christ, who 
therefore they think cannot be lawIuUy considered 
as an object ol religious worship. Although agreed 
concerning the character of Christ as a man sent and 
approved of God, they are not unanimous as to his 
miraculous conception. This society was formed in 
this country soon after the arrival of the amiable, the 
pious, the venerable Dr. Priestley. They have at 
present no settled minister ; but their religious ser- 
vices are conducted by three of the members in ro- 
tation, appomted for that purpose agreeably to rulesj 
prescribed by their constitution, till the pastoral office^ 
shall be regularly filled. 



KELIGIOUS SOCIETIES, 217 

Independents — A society of Independents, compo- 
sed ot members of various societies, was formed 
about seven years ago. Their creed is the same as 
that of the Presbyterians. 

yews — There are two synagogues in Philadelphia^ 
but the members are declining in numbers. 

Places of Worships and names of their Ministers, 

Sxvedish Lutheran — Swanson-street, below Chris- 
tian. Rev. Dr. N. Collin. 

^lakers— 'Ovi& in Pine-street, between Front and 
Second-street ; one in Key's alley, running from 
Front-street to Second, south oi Vine-street j one in 
Mulberry-street, corner o\ Fourth-street. They are 
all large, plain, brick buildings, with galleries. To the 
last mentioned is attached a burying ground, 360 by 
366 feet, and surrounded by a high brick wall. 

Free ^lakers — Corner of Mulberry and Fifth- 
Streets ; It is 48 by 36, and two stories high. 

Episcopal Churches — Christ church, in Second, 
above High-street. The west end of the present Christ 
church was built m 1727, being added to a church, 
which, from the records, appears to have been erect- 
ed or enlarged, about the year 1710, and afterwards 
pulled down. The eastern part was begun in the year 
1731, and the building completed as it now stands, 
except the steeple, the foundation only of which was 
laid, with the west end of the church. It is 90 feet 
long and 60 feet wide, and has a venerable appear- 
ance. The superstructure of the steeple was added 
about the year 1753. It is neat and simple, and just 
in its proportions, and was erected by the late Robert 
Smith. "The superstructure is composed of three, dis- 
tinct, well proportioned, parts oi architecture ; the 
first story, with its small pediments and attics, iorm- 
ing one ; the octagonal part, with its ogee-ibrmed 
T 



218 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

dome, being the second ; and the spire and its pe« 
destal, the third. These three parts are very dissi- 
milar, no one having any thing in it that is common 
to the others ; and yet they agree very well with each 
other, forming one complete and consistent whole."* 
It is 190 feet high, and has a ring of eight bells, 
\vhich were brought out from England, by the late 
captain Richard Budden. This gentleman was, for 
many years, a regular trader between Philadelphia 
and London, and remarkable for speedy passages, 
and careful attention to every person and thing on 
board. His ship, the Pennsylvania Packet, was nick- 
named the Bridge. His arrival was constantly an- 
nounced by the ringing of the church bells, a compli- 
- ment to his generosity in bringing them freight free. 

St. Peter'' s^-Comer of Pine and Third-streets, was 
built in the year 1761, It is 90 feet long, and 60 
wide. 

St. James — Seventh-street, north of High, was 
consecrated May 1, 1809. It is 90 feet long and 60 
wide. The foundation of a steeple is laid. Both 
these churches are very plain in their structure. The 
ministers have already been mentioned, p. 202. 

St. PaiiVs Church — Was built in the year 1762. It 
was set on foot by a few of the particular friends and 
admirers of a popular preacher of the day, the Rev. 
Mr. M'Clenaghan of Ireland, and is independent of 
the other episcopal churches in Philadelphia. The 
present rector, is the Rev. Dr. Pilmore, It is 99 
feet long, and 60 wide. 

African Episcopal of St. Thomas — Fifth-street, be- 
?ow Walnut, 60 by 45 feet. Built in 1794. Deacon, 
Absalom Jones. 

Baptists— The first baptist church built, is in Se- 
toiid-street near Mulber -st eet ; it was originally 



Biddle's Architecture.— B. Johnson— Philadelphia, 1895. 



REUGIOUS SOCIETIES. 2;9 

61 feet by 42, but was much enlarged last year. 
It was erected in 1 762. A burying ground lies back 
of it. This church is now vacant. 

A second is in Budd-street, above Poplar-lane, 
of which, the Rev. Mr. White is Pastor. 

A third, is in south Second-street, near Catharine- 
street. Pastor, Rev. J. Peckworth. 

A fourth is building in George-street, west of 
Eighth, lor the Rev. Dr. Staughton. It is to be 90 
feet in the clear. 

There is also an African Baptist meeting house 
building, in Tenth above Vine-street. 

Presbyterians — 1. High-street, between Second 
and Third-streets, erected 1704: rebuilt 1793: 88 feet 
long, 56 broad, 46 leet high. The ascent is by eight 
marble steps. Its front is a prostyle of four columns. 
Pastor, Rev. Dr. J. P. Wilson. 

2d. Corner of Mulberry and Third-streets, built 
1750: enlarged 1809: 95 feet long, and 60 wide. Pas- 
tors, Rev. Dr. A. Green, and Rev. Mr. Janeway. 
This society built another place ot worship in Second- 
street, corner ot Coates-street, in the Northern Li- 
berties, in 1804: 80 by 60 ieet. The ministers oi the 
church in Mulberry-street, officiate alternately in it. 

3d. In Pine-street, between Fourth and Fiith- 
streets ; this was built by the congregation oi the first 
Presbyterian church, in 1766. A burying ground is 
attached to it. Pastor, the Rev. Dr. A. Alexander. 

4th. In Fifth, near Cedar-street. Pastor, Rev. 
George Potts. 

5th. A fifth is building for the African Presbyte- 
rians. 

Ro7nan Catholic — St. Joseph, between Willing's al- 
ley and Walnut-street, built in 1733. This is only 
used at present for morning prayers. It is about 40 
by 40 feet, and one story high. 



220 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

St. Maiy's, Fourth, below Walnut-street, built in 
1763, and enlarged in 1810. It is now 100 by 71 feet. 
Pastors, the bishop Egan, Dr. John Rosseter, Rev. 
Mr. Harrold. 

Holy Trinity, corner of Spruce and Sixth-streets, 
built in 1789. Pastor, Rev. A. Britt. It is 100 feet 
long and 60 wide. 

St. Augustine, built in 1800, Fourth-street, near 
Vine-street. Pastor, Rev. Mr. Hurley. The altars of 
the three last chapels, are highly finished, elegant 
pieces of work. 

German Lutheran'— or Zion church, in Fourth- 
street, above Mulberry-street, was built in 1766. It 
is 107 feet long, 71 broad, and 44 to the eves. Di- 
vine service is performed in the German language. 
The Rev. Dr. Helmuth, and Mr. Schmidt, are min- 
isters. The old church was burnt on the 26th Dec. 
1794 ; the walls remaining, it was rebuilt, in 1796. It 
has a very handsome organ, perhaps the largest in 
North America, built by Low, of Philadelphia. 

St. John's church, was lately erected by a part of 
the congregation, who were desirous to have divine 
service performed in the English language. It is sit- 
uated in Race-street, between Fifth and Sixth-streets, 
and is the handsomest church in Philadelphia. It is 
100 feet by 67, and does great credit to those who 
designed it. The Pastor, is the Rev. Mr. Mayer. 

German Reformed — is in Sassafras, near Fourth- 
street, is 90 feet long, 65 feet wide, and 42 high ; 
built in 1762. Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Helfenstein. 

Another church v/as lately erected by a part of this 
congregation, (who like the Lutherans, were desi- 
rous of having worship performed in the English 
language) in Crown-street, which runs north and 
south, between Fourth and Fifth-streets. It is 90 by 
60 feet. They have assumed the name of the Evan- 
gelical Church, Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Burch, 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 5?l 

3Toravians — The only church belonging to this so- 
ciety is in Moravian-alley, which runs north and 
south between Second and Third-streets. It was 
erected in the year 1742. It is 40 feet long and 30 
wide. Pastor, Rev. Joseph Zeslein. 

Associate — Walnut, between Fourth and Fifth 
streets. Vacant. 

Associate Reformed — Spruce-street, between Third 
and Fourth-streets. Pastor, Rev. Dr. Gray. 

Covenanters' — Mary-street, running Irom Sixth to 
Seventh-street, below Cedar-street. Pastor, Rev. 
Mr. Wylie. 

Methodist — St. George, in Fourth-street, opposite 
St. Augustine church. It is 85 feet long, and 60 wide. 
Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Roswell. 

Ebenezer, Second, near Queen-street. Do. 

Union, at the old college, Fourth-street. Pastor, 
the Rev. Mr. Bishop. 

Bethel, Sixth, near Lombard. Pastor, Richard Al- 
len. (African.) 

Zoar, Brown-street, Northern Liberties, west of 
Fourth-street. (African.) 

Christian Church — Mount Zion, Christian-street, 
near Sixth-street. Elder, Elias Smith. 

Another is about to be built. 

Universalist — In Lombard, between Fourth and 
Fifth-streets. Pastor, Rev. Dr. Richards. 

Unitarian — In Church alley. 

Independents — In a court, west of Fourth, and 
north of Chesnut-street. Pastor, Rev. Mr. Joyce. 

Jervs — Cherry alley — and near Cable lane. Pas- 
tor, J. Cohen. 

In concluding this brief account of the numerous 
religious societies m Philadelphia, it would be im- 
proper to omit noticing the principle of universal cha- 
rit)',and truly christian spirit o! harmony, on religious 
subjects, which, from the settlement of the countiy 
T 2 



222 llELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

by Europeans, has governed the various ruling pow- 
ers : a spirit, apparently interwoven in all our uistitu- 
tions, and from which Pennsylvania has most un- 
questionably derived much ol her present domestic 
happiness, and political prosperity. 

The frequent contentions between the original set- 
tlers, the Swedes, the Dutch and the English, previ- 
ously to the arrival ol Penn, were purely of a politi- 
cal nature, and as either power gained possession of 
the country, they seemed only anxious to preserve 
the government, to conciliate the natives, and to re- 
tain the settlers, without interfering in religious con- 
cerns. The contending parties, it is true, were pro- 
testants, but even in other protestant colonies, perse- 
cution was waged against inoffensive Christians for 
non-conformity to the religious doctrines of the ru- 
lers, and for professions not at all tending to disturb 
the public tranquility. No public declaration had in- 
deed ever been made respecting the preservation of 
the rights of conscience, by any of the governments 
which had successively obtained the possession of 
the country on the Delaware; but this measure, at 
once so politic and just, early entered into the views 
olthe pacific legislator, to whom it was finally ceded; 
and although Penn had not the glory of taking the 
lead on this subject, in the new world, yet his colony 
and their descendants may, without vanity, boast of 
having acted up to the divine principle as fully, if 
not more so, than even those among whom it was 
first promulgated. 

In the laws agreed upon in England, with the ad- 
venturers, this great point was expressly provided 
for; and the first law which Penn passed in conjunc- 
tion with the representatives of the people, at their 
first assembly, convened in the province, was " con- 
cerning liberty of consciences'^ Finally, in the " Char- 
ter of Privileges" to the province, granted October 
38, iroi, and constituting the permanent form of 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 223 

government, he, in terms, plain, but highly eloquent, 
secured to the colonists the precious right.* The 
American revolution necessarily abolished this instru- 
ment, as a general rule, but the iVamers ol the state 
constitution that was substituted, retained the prin- 
ciple of free worship, and in the declaration of rights 
of our present constitution, it is even extended.f 
The cardinal points of religion being insisted on, the 
legislators wisely considered that subordinate creeds, 
or modes of faith, are subjects properly to be settled 
between God and man : and such has been the ef- 
fect, that the consideration of the religious profes- 



* The first article of the Charter beg^ins thus : " Because no 
people can be truly happy, though under the greatest enjoyment 
of civil liberties, if abridged of the freedom of their consciences, 
as to their religious profession and worship; and Almighty God 
being the only Lord of conscience ; Father of lights and spirits ; 
and the Author as well as Object of all divine knowledge, faith 
and worship, who only doth enlighten the mind, and persuade 
and convince the understandings of people ; I do hereby grant 
and declare, that no person or persons inhabiting in this pro., 
vince or temtories, who shall confess and acknowledge one 
Almighty God, the Creator, Upholder, and Ruler of the world : 
and profess him or themselves obhged to live quietly under the 
civil government, shall be in any case molested or prejudiced in 
, his or their person or estate because of their conscientious persua- 
sion cr practice, noY be compelled to frequent or maintain any re- 
ligious worship, place or ministry, contrary to his or their mind, 
or to do, or suffer any other act or thing contrary to their religious 
persuasion. And that all persons who also profess to believe in 
Je.s;:s Christ, the Saviour of the world, shall be capable, not- 
withstanding their other persuasions and practices in point of 
conscience and religion,) to serve this government in any capaci- 
ty, both legislatively and executively, he or they solemnly pro- 
mising, when lawfully required, allegiance to the king as sover- 
eign, and fidelity to the proprietary and governor, and taking the 
attests as now established by the law, made at New-Castle, in 
the year 1700." 

f Art. IX. 4. "No person who acknowledges the being of a 
God, and a future state of rewards and punishments, shall on ac- 
count of his religious sentiments, be disqualified to hold any of- 
fice or placeoftrust and profit under this commonwealth.'^ 



224 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL, 

sion of a candidate for a public office, never influen* 
ces the decision of the magistrates, or the people at 
large ; hence it is agreeable to see in our public coun- 
cils, men of every religious persuasion sitting side by 
side ; deliberating on measures of finance, internal 
improvement, the regulation of justice, or the pro- 
motion of religion generally, as if they were mem- 
bers of a government in which the irritating distinc- 
tions arising from the existence of a religious estab- 
lishment, precluded all from a participation in office, 
except those professing the govermental creed, 
and where, consequently, their deliberations would 
never be disturbed by a difference of sentiment on 
this interesting question — May the present cha- 
ritable TEMPER PREVAIL TO THE LATEST PERIOD 



Charitable Institutio7is — 1. Pen7isyha7iia Hospital, 

The first proposal for a public hospital in Phila- 
delphia, was made about the year 1750, by the late 
Dr. Thomas Bond, who in his professional capaci- 
ty, had frequent occasions for seeing the want of 
such an institution. Having united with several 
citizens, a petition was presented to the house of 
assembly on the 23d January, 1750-51, stating the 
want of such an institution, and recommending the 
subject to their consideration. The assembly in con- 
sequence, passed an act, granting the sum of /^ 2000, 
to be paid as soon as a like sum should be raised by 
subscriptions or contributions. 

As soon as the law was published, the promoters 
of the humane design set on foot a subscription, 
which in a short time amounted to considerably 
more than the sum required by the act, and on the 
first of May, 1751, a number of the contributors met 
at the State-house in Philadelphia, and pursuant to 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 225 

the act, chose by ballot twelve managers and a trea- 
surer. These were, 

Joshua Crosby, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Bond, 
Samuel Hazard, Richard Peters, Israel Pemberton, 
jun. Samuel Rhoads, Hugh Roberts, Joseph Mor- 
ris, John Smith, Evan Morgan, Charles Norris-. 
Treasurer, John Reynell. 

Benjamin Franklin acted for some years as clerk 
to the managers. 

A house, late the residence of judge Kinsey, in 
High-street, now the third house west of Fifth-street, 
(No. 172) then in the out-skirts of the city, was rent- 
ed as a hospital, and on the 2d of February, 1752, 
the first patients were admitted.* The first attend- 
ing physicians to the institution were, Drs. Lloyd 
Zachary, Thomas and Phineas Bond. Drs. Graeme, 
Cadwalader, Moore and Redman, were appointed 
consulting physicians. 

Application was made to the proprietaries of the 
province, then in London, for a lot of ground to erect 
a hospital on, and a square was particularly pointed 
out, as most desirable for the purpose, viz. " a va- 
cant part of the square between Ninth and Tenth- 
streets from Delaware, on the south side of Mul- 
berry-street ; the lots in that part of the city not 
having advanced in value for several years past, and 
not likely to be soon settled :" the proprietaries not 
being disposed to grant the lot, presented them with 
another of about the same extent on the north side 
of Sassafras-street, between Sixth and Seventh-sts. 
from Delaware. This lot the managers did not think 
proper to accept, in consideration of its then being 
contiguous to the brick-yards, which, from the stag- 
nant water in them, rendered the air unhealthy. 



• The rent was £4D annually : but " the stable and pasture," 
were let for ^^15 to the late Mr. Kintzing', ' 



^6 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

"When the nature of this charitable design becarhe 
Icnown, considerable sums were soon added to the 
stock, particularly by the citizens of Philadelphia, 
where few of the wealthy, or those of a middling 
rank, failed of contributing according to their circum- 
stances. Some benefactions were also obtained Irom 
London and the West Indies, Avhich encouraged the 
managers to attempt the building, but the prospect of a 
war in America, while it was likely to increase the 
occasion, lessened the expectation oi any further as- 
sistance from them ; nevertheless, confiding in the 
same Divine Providence, which had hitherto blessed 
their pious endeavours, for assistance to perform 
that woi'k, they sought for a suitable spot of ground 
to erect an hospital on : and had the satisfaction to 
purchase, on moderate terms, the lot which of all in 
or near the city, was judged most proper for such a 
design.* 

" This purchase being made near the end of the 
year 1754, the managers directed a plan of a hospital 
to be prepared; and one of them drew a design oi the 
whole building, in such a form, that one third part 
alone could be executed with tolerable symmetry, and 
containing, independently of the other parts, all ac- 
commodations requisite for the present purpose. 

" This design being approved of, the contributors 
were notified to meet, in order to consider the pro- 
posal, and approving the immediate building of the 
parts proposed, the managers appointed one of their 
own number, to provide materials, agree with the 
workmen, and superintend the work, and a commit- 
tee to advise and assist therein, as occasion might re- 
quire. These, with one of the most capable of the 



* The Propriei aries aftei-wards presented the hospital with 
ihe rest of the lot, forming a squax'e. 



liEN'KSYLVANlA HOSPITAL. m 

contributors, devoting themselves to the service, uni- 
ted in concerting the most frugal method of carrying 
on the building, and industriously solicited contribu- 
tions from all persons concerned therein. Most of 
those from whom materials were purchased, contri- 
buted a large proportion of what they furnished ; 
and so diligent and successful were their applications, 
that scarce a tradesman, or even labourer, was em- 
ployed, without engaging a part [ot his labour] to 
be charitably applied in the premises." 

The foundation stone of the first part of the pre- 
sent building, was laid on the 28th May, 1755 : and 
bears the following neat inscription, written by Dr. 
Franklin. 

In the year of Christ, 
MDCCLV. 

Oeorge the Second, happily reigning, 

(For he sought the happiness oi his People,) 

Philadelphia Flourishing, 

(For its inhabitants were public spirited) 

This Building, 

By the bounty of the Government, 

And of many private persons, 

Was piously founded. 

For the Relief of the Sick and Miserable ^ 

May the God of Mercies, 

Bless the undertaking. 

The hospital stands on a square, three hundred and 
ninety-six leet in width, and tour hundred andsix.y- 
eight feet in length, containing about four acres-— 
Round it is a brick wall, and rows of high forest 
trees. Within the wall, the ground is decorated with 
gardens, grass plots, gravel walks, hedges, &c. Part 
oi the south front is inclosed by an iron railing. 
in the yard, fronting the south side of the house,, 



228 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

is a leaden statue, bronzed, of William Penn, on a 
marble pedestal, who is represented holding a scroll, 
having part of" the first sentence of the " charter of 
privileges" inscribed on it. This statue was presented 
by Mr. John Penn, now of London, to the hospital, 
in the year 1801. 

There is also a vacant square to the east, and 
half a square to the west ; containing together, more 
than six acres, running in parallel lines with the 
ground on which the buildings are erected ; the other 
half of this square is owned by the city, and as it is 
meant to keep it always open, the Pennsylvania hos- 
pital is, and will be, situated in the middle Oi three 
great squares, which, besides the open streets, mea- 
sure more than thirteen acres. The contributors have 
also bought three lots on the south side of the hospi- 
tal, in order to secure a tree current ol air, preserve 
the water pure, and to guard against fire. The policy of 
this provision was never more conspicuous, than du- 
ring the late fevers, particularly in 1793, when not a 
person in the hospital took it, though upwards of 
four thousand died of it, in about four months, in the 
city, in that year. 

knowing the inestimable value of open ground to 
the hospital, the contributors have a confident assu- 
rance, that avarice itself, will never dare to propose 
the alienation of one foot of the ground, which they 
have provided at their own expense tor such a be- 
nevolent use. 

The hospital exhibits in the centre, a house, sixty 
four feet in front, elevated above all the adjoining 
buildings, and projecting beyond them a proper dis- 
tance. On the top is a sky light, to enlighten the 
theatre for surgical operations ; irom which there is 
a beautiful view of the city plot, the river, German- 
town, Frankiord, the lort, and several elegant coun- 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 223 

tiy seats on the Schuylkill. Two large stair cases, 
leading to the several wards, are made in this divi- 
sion. 

Adjoining hereto on the east, is a ward, 80 feet 
front, 27 feet deep, and three stories high ; at the 
end, a wing crosses it, north and south, extexiding ia 
length, 110 feet. 

In the middle of the wing, opposite to the ward, is 
a hall, 28 feet square, including a stair-case, project- 
ing beyond the other part of the wing, sufficient to 
-cover the cornice, and raised one story above them, 
with a cupola, that affords a secure way out, in case 
of fire. 

Adjoining to the centre house on the west, are a" 
ward and wing, similar to those on the east, with this 
exception, that the wards are about 34 feet deep : this 
extension was agreed to, in order to admit double 
rows of rooms, to accommodate a greater number of 
lunatics. The difference, unless to an accurate ob- 
server, is scarcely perceivable. 

The whole extent of the buildings, from east to 
west, is two hundred and seventy-eight feet ; by the 
length of the wing, crossing the wards, the east and 
west fronts make an agreeable appearance. Detach- 
ed from the hospital, at a little distance, is a sepa- 
rate building, with a convenient enclosure, for vene- 
real patients, who are kept by themselves. There are 
also, sundry other apartments on the lot, such as 
stable, ice-house, smoke-house, fire engine-house, Sec, 
Rooms in the hospital are appropriated to the fol- 
lowing uses. 

For the library, ..... 1 

Contributors, ...... 1 

Managers, ...... 1 

Museum, 1 

Apothecary's shop, ..... 1 
Bathing rooms, . . . . . -2 



230 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

Theatre for operations, .... 1 

Wash-house, Bake-house and Kitchens, . 4 

Cell keeper and his wife, .... 1 
Steward, matron and servants, in the centrehouse, 8 

Lunatics, in the west wing and ward, . 70 

Do. in the east, ..... 16 

For sick and wounded, .... 23 

In all, 130 
wards and rooms. 

The lunatics, being separated from the sick by the 
centre house, the latter are not incommoded by 
their noise. 

There is an excellent anatomical museum, consist- 
ing of admirable imitations of every part of the hu- 
man body, in wax, made by the late Dr. Chovet, up- 
wards of half a century ago, in Jamaica. A set of 
anatomical paintings, and castings in gypsum, pre- 
sented by the late Dr. John Fothergill, of London, 
the uniform and active friend of the United States, 
and of the hospital : and numerous injected prepara- 
tions, and others in spirit, by various hands. 

The library comprises about three thousand vol- 
umes of choice medical books, and is thought to be 
the best collection of the kind in this country: this 
and the museum, are enlarged and supported by a 
fund of about five hundred dollars per annum, which 
medical pupils, who attend the lectures, from all 
parts of the continent, West Indies, &c. pay for the 
privilege of reading, and attending the practice of the 
house ; the money is exclusively applied to enlarge 
the collection, with the consent of the physicians, 
who, in other countries, enjoy these perquisites to 
themselves. 

By an act of the legislature, passed in 1801, liber- 
ty was granted to gratt upon the hospital, a lying-ia 
and ioundling department. The lying-in dtpartmenty 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 231 

for married women, has been some years in opera- 
tion. Single pregnant women, come under the no- 
tice of the \aw : and are provided for by the guar- 
dians of the poor. 

The contributors w^ere incorporated in the year 
1751, by an act of the colonial legislature, by the name 
and title of " Contributors to the Pennsylvania Hospi- 
tal:" such may vote at elections for managers, or be vo- 
ted for, but derive no personal interest from the act of 
incorporation. A contributor is one who bestows ten 
pounds to the hospital. A sum less than ten pounds, 
is called a donation. 

The contributors have perpetual succession, with 
power to elect twelve managers, a treasurer, and all 
other officers of the institution, and make rules for 
the well-ordering of the house. They may receive and 
take the lands, hereditaments, and tenements, not ex- 
ceeding the yearly value of one thousand pounds, of 
the gift, alienation, bequest or devise of any person 
or persons whomsoever, and of any goods and chat- 
ties whatsoever; provided, that, no general meeting 
of the contributors, or persons acting under them, 
shall employ any money or other estate, expressly 
given to the capital stock of the hospital, in any other 
way, than by applying its annual mterest or rent to- 
wards the entertainment and care of the sick and dis- 
tempered poor, that shall from time to time be 
brought and placed therein, for the cure o their dis- 
eases, from any part of the state, without pardalit, of 
preference. 

If there should not be a constant succession of 
contributors to meet yearly and choose managers, 
then the hospital, its estate and affairs, and all the 
management thereof, are to be under the direction of 
such persons as the legislature may appoint. 

By a law of the contributors, the power o^ direct- 
ing the manner and terms of receiving and discharg- 



■:.o2 PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL. 

ing patients, is transferred to the managers, who 
made a rule, if there should be room in the hospital, 
(after as many poor patients are accommodated as 
the interest of the capital stocJc can support,) to take 
in such others, as they can on reasonable rates agree 
lor; and that the profits arising from boarding and 
nursing such patients, shall be appropriated to the 
.same uses, as the interest money of the public stock. 
The price of board is various, according to the appli- 
cant's ability to pay; but changes with the rise and fall 
of provisions, &c. 

The overseers of the poor of Pennsylvania, and re- 
ligious societies therein, who support their own 
poor by voluntary subscriptions, pay but three dol- 
lars a week, which is about the first cost of one per- 
son's maintenance, including medicine and all charg- 
es, except clothing and funeral expenses. 

The overseers of the poor of other states pay foui? 
dollars; private patients, who are residents of Pennsyl- 
vania, from three and a half, to ten dollars ; and non- 
residents, from four and a half, to ten dollars. Every 
patient may choose his own pliysician, but he must be 
one of the house physicians. 

An amputation of a limb is not to be performed, 
unless the patient consents to it ; nor then, unless 
three physicians agree to it, after a consultation on 
the case. 

Single persons, who are sick, especially strangers, 
will find it their interest to prefer the hospital to any 
tavern or boarding-house ; lor the following reasons. 

The physicians are of the first eminence. 

The nurses are experienced. 

The apartments are convenient. 

The price of board is lower than individuals can 
take, and the patient has the satisfaction to know, if 
there is any profit, it is given to the poor. 



PENNSYT>VANIA HOSPITAL. 233 

These facts are stated from a thorough knowledge 
of the institution, and because it is conceived that 
the interests of humanity may be served by so doing ; 
for many persons may be prevented from deriving 
the benefits of it, from false notions of a hospital, or 
from having seen the want ol' neatness, the crowded 
wards, and inattention to the sick in som^ European 
hospitals. 

Two managers and two physicians, meet every 
Wednesday and Saturday in the hospital at 1 1 o'clock 
in the iorenoon, to admit and discharge patients. 

At intervening times, the applicant must repair to 
one oi the monthly physicians, who, if he considers 
the case a proper one, will certiiy it in writing, to 
the sitting manager, who will take the usual secu- 
rity, and give an order for admission. 

Overseers of the poor, from the country, wl«o bring 
a patient, must have a certificate, signed b two ma- 
gistrates, denoting that they are in office, and that the 
pauper, proposed for admission, resides in their dis- 
trict, or their application will be rejected. 

Persons with contagious diseases, are not to be 
received, nor incurable cases, lunatics excepted : 
but, any person living in or near Philadelphia, re- 
ceiving, by accident, a desperate wound, or having a 
fractured limb, may be brought to the hospital, with- 
out an order; and he will be received day or night, 
provided he is brought in within twenty-four hours 
after the accident. The design o: this proviso is, to 
prevent the injured person irom sufieringby neglect, 
or irom employing unskilful hands. 

The capital stock consists of ground-rents and mo- 
ney at interest : besides these, there is no produc- 
tive income for the support of poor patients, except 
the profit of pay patients, both ol which sums united, 
will not mamtain more than sixty poor persons ; nor 
u 2 



23^ RENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL- 

can the number be increased, until by legacies, or fu- 
ture contributions, the funds are enlarged : this in- 
crease is much to be desired, as every convenience 
is provided in the hospital, to accommodate three 
hundred and fifty persons, on a moderate calcula- 
tion ; but for want of an adequate capital, num- 
bers are necessarily denied the benefits of an institu- 
tion that is peculiarly well situated, in other respects, 
to relieve them. 

The managers, treasurer, and physicians are all 
contributors, and serve gratis, except that persons in 
affluence pay the physicians, as they would if attend- 
ed in private houses. 

Such are the principles on which this institution 
has been raised and supported ; and as it has been of 
the greatest utility to the public, it is hoped it will 
continue to excite their attention, until, by the en- 
largement of its funds, its benefits may be extended 
to a greater number of poor, agreeably to the design 
of its pious founders. 

Legacies are usually given in the corporate nam^j 
as follows. 

I give and bequeath to the contributors to the Penn- 
sylvania Hospital, to be added to the capital stock, 
dollars. 

Contributions and donations are received by Jo- 
seph Saunders Lewis, treasurer. No. 25, Dock street. 

The tax commonly called the city hospital tax, is 
raised for the lazaretto, &c. and not foi the Pennsyl- 
vania hospital, as many suppose, who do not observe 
the distinction. 

The Pennsylvania hospital, ever since its founda- 
tion, has been exempted from taxation, until within 
the last three years, when all the real estate, except 
the lot on which the hospital stands, has been as- 
sessed i but the city councils, from a conviction of its 



PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL^ 235" 

general utility, by a late ordinance, have exempted it 
from city taxes. The county, health, and poor taxes 
are still assessed. 

Present officers of the institution. 
Managers — Josiah Hewes, Samuel Coates, Thomas 
Stewardson, Lawrence Seckel, Thomas P. Cope, Pat- 
tison Hartshorne, Zaccheus Collins, Paschall Hol- 
Jingsworth, Edward Pennington, William Poyntell, 
Reeve Lewis, Joseph Lownes. 

Treasurer — Joseph Saunders Lewis. 

Physicians — Dr. Rush, Dr. Parke, Dr. Wistar, Dr. 
Physick, Dr. Barton, Dr. Hartshorne. 

Physician to the lying-in department — Dr. Tho- 
mas C. James. 

Physician to the out patients— Dr. Samuel Cal- 
houn. 

Medical pupils in the house — John Moore, B. S. 
Janney, Theodore Benson. 

Steward — Francis Higgins. 

Matron — Hannah Higgins. 

During the year, ending the 27th of April, 1811, 
there were admitted in the house, 356, pay, and 220 
poor patients, ...... 576 

And attended out of doors, poor, . , 1616 
Of whom were cured, . 309 1258 

Relieved, , . , , 53 70 

Incurable, .... 1 1 

Discharged at their own request, 20 removed, 89 



Irregular, .... 


1 


61 


Delivered, .... 


5 


10 


Discharged infants in health, 


5 vaccined, 


37 


Eloped, .... 


6 




Died, .... 


52 


81 


Remain, . . . « 


124 remain 


89 



236 PHILADELPHIA DISPENSARY. 



2. Philadelphia Dispensary. 

A consideration of the distresses of the poor, when 
afflicted with disease, and of their inability to provide 
for themselves in such a situation gave rise to the de- 
sign of establishing a Dispensary Tor their relief in 
1786. This first effort of the kind in the United 
States of America, has been attended with the hap- 
piest effects, and the example has been followed in 
most of our principal cities. 

The following extract from the introduction to 
the plan, as first published in 1786, will serve to give 
a more comprehensive view of the nature and utility 
of a Dispensary. 

" Plan of the Philadelphia Dispensary for the medi- 
cal relief of the Poor, 
" To the Citizens of Philadelphia. 

" In all large cities there are many poor persons 
afflicted by diseases, whose iormer circumstances and 
habits of independence will not permit them to ex- 
pose themselves as patients in a public hospital. 
There are also many diseases and accidents of so 
acute and dangerous a nature, that the removal of 
patients afflicted by them, is attended with many ob- 
vious inconveniences. And there are some diseases 
of such a nature, that the air of an hospital, crowded 
with patients, is injurious in them. A number of gen- 
tlemen having taken these things into consideration, 
have proposed to establish a Public Dispensary in the 
city of Philadelphia, for the medical relief of the 
poor. 

" The particular advantages of this institution will 
be as ;ollovv : 

" 1st. The sick may be attended and relieved in 
their own houses, without the pain and inconvenience 



PHILADELPHIA DISPENSARY. "237 

of being separated from their families. A father may- 
still continue to provide for his children, and chil- 
ch-en may enjoy in sickness the benefit of a mo- 
ther's kindness and attention. 

" 2dly. The sick may be relieved at a much less 
expense to the public, than in an hospital, where 
provisions, bedding, fire wood, and nurses, are re- 
quired for their accommodation. 

" And 3dly. The sick may be relieved in a man- 
ner perfectly consistent with those noble feelings of 
the human heart, w^hich are inseparable from virtu- 
ous poverty ; and in a manner also strictly agreeable 
to those refined precepts of Christianity, which incul- 
cate secrecy in acts of charity and benevolence." 

The objects of the institution are the indigent 
SICK, of every description, and In every disease, when 
recommended by the contributors. They are visited 
at their own houses, when unable to go abroad ; but 
those who can come out, attend at the dispensary, 
where the physicians prescribe for them at stated 
times. 

The apothecary resides at the Dispensary, receives 
applications for admission, and records the name, 
age, occupation, and residence of the patients ; the 
name of the contributor, who recommends them : 
their diseases, and the event. He gives information 
to the attending physicians, when the sick require be- 
ing visited at their own houses : he prepares and re- 
cords all the prescriptions of the physicians, including 
not only medicines strictly so called, but also wine, 
sago, oatmeal, barley, &c. When cured, the patients 
are required to take a discharge to the contributor 
who recommended them. 

The city and liberties are divided into two dis- 
tricts. Two physicians are on duty at the same time ; 
who, on the alternate days of the week, attend a 
the dispensary, such patients of their respective dis- 



2Z8 PHILADELPmA DISPENSARY, 

tricts as are able to go abroad, and also regularly vi- 
sit those who are confined at their own houses. 

The funds of the institution arise from a guinea 
annually paid by each contributor ; or, ten guineas 
at one payment constituting a life subscription. Le- 
gacies and donations also form a considerable part of 
the funds. 

The form of a legacy is as follows : " I give and 

bequeath to the Philadelphia Dispensary, the sum of 

to be paid to their treasurer for the 

time being, and applied towards carrying on the 

charitable designs of the said institution." 

The general business of the institution is directed 
by twelve managers, who are annually elected by the 
eontributors. The managers meet every month, and 
at the close oi every year, publish an account O' the 
number of patients, who have received the benefits of 
the institution, as well as a statement of the receipts 
and expenditures of monies during the year. They 
also annually appoint six attending and four consult- 
ing physicians and surgeons, a treasurer, and an apo- 
thecary. A charter oi incorporation was procured in 
1796. 

The attending physicians are on duty, in succes- 
sion, for two months at a time. They may apply to 
the consulting physicians in difficult cases. The phy- 
sicians give their attendance gratis. 

The want of a convenient situation was, for a long 
time, sensibly felt by the managers, and induced 
them in 1800, to purchase a lot of ground in Fifth- 
street, and to erect thereon, a commodious building. 
The funds for this purpose consisted of some stock 
purchased with former savings, and of donations, so- 
licited for the purpose amongst our fellow-citizens. 
Several liberal bequests have also been made, 
amongst which are peculiarly to be reckoned those 
ol," the late Andrew Doz, John Bleakley, and tht 



PHILADELPraA DISPENSARY. 539 

sum bestowed by the trustees of the fund left by>the 
late John Keble ; which have not only served to ex- 
tricate the institution from an heavy debt incurred by 
the purchase of the lot, and erection of the building ; 
but also, with the assistance of the annual contribu- 
tions, to enable the managers to carry on the busi- 
ness of the dispensary in a more satisfactory and ex- 
tensive manner, the number ot patients having consi- 
derably increased. Three thousand two hundred and 
seventy-five patients were under the care of the dis- 
pensary from December 1st, 1809, to December 1st, 
1810. 

Remaining from last year, . . 82 

Admitted since last year, 



Of whom the number Cured, is 
Dead, . 
Relieved, 
Removed, 
Irregular, 
Remaining under care, 



3193 

32/5 

2916 
99 
98 
26 
38 
98 

3275 

Officers of the institution elected January, 1811. 
Managers — William White, D. D. President ; 
Henry Helmuth, Godtrey Haga, Joseph Crukshank, 
Robert Blackwell, Lawrence Seckel, James Robert- 
son, Robert Smith, Isaac Snowden, Ebenezer Ha- 
zard, Robert Ralston. 

Secretary — Dr. Samuel P. Griffitts. 
Attending Physicians and Surgeons— Drs. Joseph 
Parrish, Isaac Cleaver, John Perkin, Henry Nedl, 
Samuel S. Stewart, Benjainin Kugler. 

Consulting Physicians and Surgeons — Drs. Benja- 
min Rush, Thomas Parke, Caspar Wistar, Phi- 
lip S. Physick. 

Treasurer — John Clifford. 
Apothecary— George G. Trcsse. 



24« HUMANE SOCIETY. 

The whole expense of the institution, for the last 
year, tor house support, medicines, and apothecaries 
salary, amounted to the small sum of S2160 78 ; and 
justifies the observation made by one of its founders,* 
that it " exhibits something like the application of 
the mechanical powers to the purposes of humanity, 
for in what other charitable institution do we per- 
ceive so great a quantity of distress relieved by so 
small an expense ?" 

3. Humane Society, 

This useful society was established during the re- 
volutionary war, 1780. Its attention is directed to the 
recovery of drowned persons, and of those whose ani- 
mation may be suspended from other causes, as 
breathing air contaminated by burning charcoal, 
lianging, exposure to the choke damp of wells, 
drinking cold water while warm in summer, strokes 
of the sun, lightning, swallowing laudanum, &c. 

For the purpose of recovering the bodies of drown- 
ed persons, drags are placed at all the ferries, and 
public places of resort on both sides the Delaware, 
and on Schuylkill, with the usual apparatus, and 
boxes of necessary medicines. Medical assistants arc 
appointed, to whom the public are recommended in 
the first instance to apply in the event of an accident 
happening : directions for the treatment of the vari- 
ous cases that may occur, have occasionally been 
published, and rewards are annually bestowed upon 
those who risque their own lives in the attempt to 
save that of others. Handbills, containing cautions 
against drinking cold water, when the body is heated, 
with directions to obviate the deadly effects of such 
imprudence, are annually printed, and pasted upon all 



* Dr. Bush. 



ABOLITION SOCIETY. 241 

the pumps previously to the commencement of the 
hot months. 

For the purpose of adding to the knowledge al- 
ready possessed on suspended animation, the society 
have offered the following medals. 

For the best dissertation on the means of restoring 
to life persons apparently dead by drowning, and 
more effectually than any yet in use, a gold medal, 
value two hundred dollars. 

For the second best, a piece of plate, value one 
hundred dollars. 

The dissertations are to be sent to the secretary of 
the society, (post paid) by the first day oi January, 
1813. 

They may be written in the English, French, or 
Latin language, to be accompanied with a sealed pa- 
per, containing the author's name and place oi resi- 
dence, which is not to be opened unless the prize is 
decreed. 

They shall be submitted to the judgment and de- 
cision oi the medical proiessors of the University of 
Pennsylvania. 

The society is in correspondence with the Hu- 
mane Society oi London. 

The society is incorporated. The annual meeting 
for the appointment oi officers is on the first Wednes- 
day in March. The annual subscription of tlie con- 
tributors is one dollar. 

Joseph Cruk shank, President. 

Isaac Snowden, Secretary. 

AbolitioJi Society, 

The people of Pennsylvania, while struggling for 
their own liberty against loreign oppression, were 
struck with the inconsistency of retaining in slaver} 
a portion of their fellow creatures, and therefore, in 

X 



242 ABOLITION SOCIETY. 

the height of the revohitionary war, (1780) passed a 
law for its gradual abolition. All blacks and mulat- 
toes born, Irom that time, from slaves, were declared 
to be free, after having served their masters 28 years, 
in the manner and on the same conditions as com- 
mon apprentices are held. A supplement was passed 
in the year 1788, which declared that all slaves of 
persons intending to settle in the state, should be 
free, upon their coming therein. By being first ma- 
numitted, they may be bound as an apprentice to 
serve such a term of years, as may be agreed on be- 
tween master and man. Various other provisions 
were made on the subject, and a society, originally 
formed in 1774, but enlarged in 1787, attended to 
their execution. It was incorporated in the year 1 789, 
and has been attended with a zeal worthy the cause in 
which they were engaged. The inconvenience which 
many sustained from having been deprived ot their 
slaves, in consequence oi neglecting to register them: 
the apparent hardship, and want of generosity in libe- 
rating the slaves oi those who Avere flying to our state as 
an asylum irom war, tyranny or disease j and accu- 
sations oi improper interference with slaves who were 
contented with their lot, all served to render this so- 
ciety, for a long time, highly unpopular with slave- 
holders, and the enemies oir the blacks ; but the people 
are now convinced that while the society has very 
properly been active in seeing the provisions oi the 
law duly executed, by liberating those who have been 
held in bondage at home, contrary to the laws oi the 
state ; and have even by legal process, procured the 
restoration ot others who had been kidnapped and 
sent to the southern states, to New-Orleans, and to 
the West Indies : and have served as a check upon 
the undue severity oi masters: they have at the same 
time always discouraged groundless complaints, and 
have given every facility to the detection of run- 



PRISON SOCIETY. 243 

aways in the state of Pennsylvania, or from other 
states. The venerable Franklin was the first presi- 
dent of this society. The present president is Dr. 
Rush. The active duties of this society fall upon the 
acting committee, consisting of six members. Able 
counsellors are chosen to assist the society, who cheer- 
fully give advice when required. At present there 
are only two slaves in Philadelphia, whose attach- 
ment to their masters is so great, as to induce them to 
prefer their situation to uncontrouled freedom. 

Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Public Prisons » 

This society was formed in the year 1787, and 
was proposed by an active citizen in the cause of the 
reformation of the penal code, in order to alleviate 
some ot the miseries attendant thereon. Their de- 
sign will best appear by the preamble to the consti- 
tution, viz. 

" When we consider that the obligations of benev- 
olence, which are founded on the precepts and ex- 
amples ot the author of Christianity, are not can- ' 
celled by the follies or crimes of our fellow crea- 
tures : and when we reflect upon the miseries which 
penury, hunger, cold, unnecessary severity, unv/hole- 
some apartments, and guilt (the usual attendants of 
prisons) involve with them; it becomes us to extend 
our compassion to that part of mankind, who are the 
subjects of those miseries. By the aid o; humanity, 
their undue and illegal sufferings mav be prevented, 
the links which should bind the whole iamily o> man- 
kind together, under all circumstances, be preserved 
unbroken : and such degrees and modes of punish- 
ment may be discovered and suggested, as iriay, in- 
stead of continuing habits of vice, become the means 
of restoring our fellow creatures to virtue and hap- 
piness. From a conviction of the truth and obliga- 



344 PRISON SOCIETY. 

tion of these principles, the subscribers have associa- 
ted themselves under the title oi " The Philadelphia 
Society for alleviating the miseries of public pri- 
sons." 

The officers of the society consist of a president, 
two vice-presidents, two secretaries, a treasurer, an 
electing committee of ten, and an acting committee, 
annually chosen. 

The acting ccinmittee consists of the president, two 
vice-presidents, and six other members, three of 
whom go out at the meetings in January and July. 
It is their duty to visit the prisons at least once a 
month, to inquire into the circumstances of the pri- 
soners, and report such abuses as they shall discover, 
to the proper officers appointed to remedy them; and 
to examine the influence of confinement or punish- 
ment upon the morals of the prisoners. They may 
draw upon the treasurer for such sums of money as 
may be necessary. They keep regular minutes of their 
proceedings, to be read at every quarterly meeting 
of the society. 

Every member upon his admission contributes one 
dollar, and one dollar annually tOAvards defraying its- 
contingent expenses. 

The appointment of the board of inspectors of the 
prison, and the admirable regulations which have 
been from time to time introduced therein, have ve- 
ry materiall}' lessened the duties of this society. Ne- 
vertheless they still find occasion for their attention 
among that class of prisoners put in for trial, who 
would sufter in winter for clothes, and sometimes 
are improperly detained, or from inattention, are not 
brought to trial. 

President— William White, D. D. 

Vice-Presidents — William Rogers, D. D. Thomas 
Wistar. 

Secretaries — Caleb Cresson,jun. Roberts Vaux. 

Treasurer — Israel W. Morns. 



MAGDALEN SOCIETY. 245 

There was a society established in the winter of 
1776, under the name of " The Philadelphia Society 
for assisting distressed prisoners," and it appears 
that a very considerable number of citizens cheer- 
fully became members, who paid a subscription of 10s: 
and that the managers by an attention to the ne- 
cessities of the prisoners, afforded considerable relief 
to them, daring the existence of the society, which 
by a minute on their book, appears to have been 
about nineteen months. 

Magdalen Society^ 

Was instituted in the year 1800. Its objects are 
*' to aid in restoring to the paths ol virtue ; to be in- 
strumental in recovering to honest rank in life, those 
unhappy females, who have been robbed of their in- 
nocence, and are desirous of returning to a life of 
rectitude." It was incorporated in the year 1802, 
An asylum has been opened near the corner of Sas- 
safras, on Schuylkill Second-street, and several fe- 
males admitted. The members of the society are 
numerous, and the funds annually increasing. 

The following is the report of the managers, for 
1810: 
Remaining in the Asylum at last 

report, .... 8 Magdalenr. 

Admitted since, ... 8 

16 

Of Avhom, 

Placed out to service, . 7 

Discharged at own request, 1 
Dismissed for improper 

conduct, ... 1 

Eloped, . . . 2—11 

Remaining, ... 5 



692 





133 


884 


22 


8 


59 


86 


94 


47 


150 





9 


95i 



;:46 FRIENDS ALMS HOUSE. 

The expenses of the house, &c. have been as fol- 
lows : 

Board of Magdalens, 

Clothing do. 

Bedding, , 

FireM^ood, 

Wages of assistant Matron, 

Interest on purchase money for 
the Asylum, 

Incidental charges, 

1162 25 

Amount of purchases for mate- 
rials and machinery in manu- 
facturing, . . . 197 14 

Amount of expenses enlarging 
and improving ihe Asylum, 

Paid for insuring it against fire, 

Paid for books, as commence- 
ment of Library, 



President — William White, D. D. 
Vice-President. — Robert Ralston. 
Treasurer — John Evans. 
. Secretary — Thomas Kite. 

Private and Endowed Institutions. — 1. Friends Alms 
House, 
This establishment is supported by the Society of 
Friends, for the benefit oi their own poor. It consists 
of a number of single rooms, opening into a lot 
which is appropriated to the cultivation of medicinal 
herbs. Such oi the occupants as are able to work, 
diminish the expense of their support by labour oi a 
light kind, and contribute much to the convenience 
of the citizens. Silks and feathers, and other articles 
of dressj are there washed: quilting is also neatly 
done* 



647 34 


73 


18 28 


S2098 01 



FEMALE SOCIETIES FOR EMPLOYMENT. 247 



2. Christ Church Hospital, 

Is an endowment for aged women of the episco- 
pal church, made by Dr. John Kearsly, formerly an 
eminent physician of Philadelphia ; who bequeathed 
for this purpose, an estate, chiefly landed, which he 
vested in the rector, church wardens and vestry-men 
of the united churches of Christ church and St. Pe- 
ters. 

Since the establishment of this institution, it has 
received a considerable addition oi property, by the 
gii'toi' Joseph Dobbins, a native of Philadelphia ; but 
long resident in South Carolina. Dr. Kearslv's will 
requires that the women supported by this institu- 
tion, shall lie supplied with meat, drink, lodging, and 
have medical attendance. There are now 26 women 
on the foundation, which is at 111 Mulberry-street, 

Associations for General Charitij — 1 . Female Society 
for the Employment oj the Poor. 

This was instituted by the late Ann Parrish, of the 
society of Friends, at the close of the year 1793, 
when a pestilential epidemic had swept off thousands 
of our citizens, leaving many widows with children, 
to struggle with poverty and all its attendant evils. 
The founder of this Society associating herself with 
several friends, sought out the haunts ot wretched- 
ness, comforted the sick, supplied their wants, and 
directed the hand of the industrious to labour. The 
great good produced by their exertions, excited very 
general attention among the benevolent religious so- 
ciety to which they belonged ; and occasioned them 
to form a regular association, to be supported by 
subscription, tor the purpose of relieving the wants 
of indigent females during the winter season. 
Aware of the evils attendant upon an indiscriminate 



248 FEMALE SOCIETY FOR EMPLOYMENT. 

distribution of money, to those who are able to 
work, the society rented a house, in which they em- 
ploy poor women in spinning wool and flax, and 
conduct business in the following manner. A com- 
mittee of the society attend daily at the " House of 
Industry," the women are required to come early in 
the morning, (with their children) when each is as- 
signed a portion of work ; one or more of the in- 
spectors are always present, to preserve decorum, 
and insure attention to business, and to sell the arti- 
cles manufactured. A room is solely appropriated to 
the children, who are committed to the care of one 
woman. The eating room and kitchen are below 
ground, where wholesome food is prepared for 
them ; and when at meals, a becoming propriety of 
conduct is preserved. After the work of the day 
has been finished, one of the committee reads a 
chapter in the Bible to the women, Avho then return 
to their homes. The women, besides being fed, are 
paid Sor their labour. The city is divided into dis- 
tricts, and committees for each district are appointed 
to visit the sick, and to administer to their comfort, 
without regard to colour, at their own houses. These 
committees make regular reports of their proceed- 
ings to the society. Donations of cash, clothes, 
groceries, whiter vegetables, or flour, as may suit the 
circumstances oi the benevolent, will be acceptable. 
It is a satisfaction to be assured, that the alms be- 
stowed, will be distributed in the most economical 
and judicious manner. 

2. Female Hospitable Society. 

A society under the above name was formed dur- 
ing the winter of 1808-9: shortly aiter the imposi- 
tion of the embargo, when numerous iemales, who 
obtained a living by the innumerable employments 
directly or indirectly connected with active com- 



FEMALE HOSPITABLE SOCIETY. 249 

merce, were deprived of support. The distresses of 
several oi those women coming under the notice of 
some benevolent ladies, they associated lor the pur- 
pose ot enabling them to maintain themselves; they 
therefore purchased flax, and gave it out to be spun 
into thread ior various uses, and hired aware room. 
A preference is given to married women. The s ck 
are supplied with various comforts, and are attend- 
ed by the physician of the society. The city is divided 
into districts ; each of which is allotted to a certain 
number oi members, who attend to the sick or af- 
flicted, in the quarter assigiied to them. The direct- 
ress of the society attends, with another member^ 
every Monday, from 9 till 12 o'clock, at the ware 
room, to receive the work from the women, to pay 
for the same, and to give out more flax. 

This society depends upon subscription for its 
continuance, and has afforded considerable rellel to 
many women, who could not partake of the charity 
of the first female society mentioned, by reason of 
not finding it convenient, ibr various reasons, to leave 
their homes during the day. Donations of money, 
groceries, clothes, flax and wool, are always accept- 
able. The ware room is No. 1, Appletree alley, the 
first alley above Mulberry street, in Fourth. 

Directress — Mrs. Snyder, 321, High street. 

To dwell in praise of such societies is unne- 
cessary. Everv intelligent reader will at once see, 
from a m.sre narration of facts, the immense benefits 
which must inevitably flow from the encouragement 
affoi-ded by these societies, to those who are willing to 
work: from the formation of good habits, or their 
preservation in those already blessed with them, the 
prevention of the numerous evils and temptations 
to theft, and other wickedness, arising from pover- 
ty, and in that sex too whose influence upon the mo- 
rals and manners of society is known to be highly 
extensive. 



259 FEMALE ASSOCIATION. 



^. Feinale Association. 



Another humane society was instituted by some 
ladies in the year 1801, by the name of " Female 
Association, for the relief of Women and Children 
in reduced circumstances." Unless in extraordinary 
cases, this relief is to be refused to persons who, 
having children, shall refuse to put such ot them as 
are of a proper age to good trades, or eligible ser- 
vice, or to send them to a charitable school, when in 
their power. In all cases, in which it is practicable, 
relief is given in necessaries rather than in money. 

There are two general meetings in a year, in April 
and November. At the last, 13 directors are cho- 
sen. At each general meeting a report is to be made 
by the directors, of the effects of the charity. The 
directors meet every fortnight; they annually choose 
a president, and six managers of the charity. They 
reserve, out of all monies belonging to the society, 
at least twenty per centum, to form a fund for the 
security of the charity, which, with any other monies 
or property that may be given, they are to improve 
in the best manner. 

The managers receive such sums from the trea- 
surer, for distribution, as the board of directors may 
order. They are to inquire for proper objects of 
charity, and give them relief; and are to report to 
the board how they have disposed of the monies put 
into their hands. 

The education of poor children is to be a favourite 
object, whenever the funds will admit. The sub- 
scription is three dollars annually. 

To say how much misery, mental and bodily, this 
society annually relieves, would be to tell what is fa- 
miliar to every person whose inclination prompts to, 



SUNDAY SCHOOL SOCIETY. 2ol 

or duty requires an intercourse with the afRicted poor. 
All Philadelphia knows and appreciates their services. 

President — Mrs. Stocker, 193, S. Front-street. 

Treasurer — Mrs. Hodge. 

Secretary — Miss Gratz, 258, High-street. 

Free Schools — 1. Sunday School Society, 

Was instituted in 1791 and incorporated in 1796. 
Its object is to afford those who cannot go to school 
on week days, an opportunity to learn to read and 
write, on Sunday. Subscribers pay one dollar an- 
nually. Ten dollars entitle a person to membership 
for life. By a late report ot the managers it ap- 
pears, that between 1791 and 1 SCO, there had been ex- 
pended on the education of children, 3968 dollars 
56 cents. The number taught during that time be- 
ing 2127. There were three schools then in opera- 
tion, one for boys, and one for girls, in the city; and 
a third for boys in Southwark, each containing about 
60 scholars. From want of iunds, only one school was 
supported in 1806. In 1808, the school for boys, in 
the city, was resumed, and by the donation ol the 
trustees of John Keble's estate, (about ^2000) a 
third school was opened in the Northern Liberties. 
The utility of the institution has been fully proved. 
Many of the pupils, who had no other opportunity of 
acquiring the benefit of school learning than that 
which had been presented by this institution, attain- 
ed therein the power oi spelling and reading with 
correctness and propriety, and of writing an easy and 
legible hand. Besides which, by attending, at hours 
not inier,ering with public worship, they are, in a 
great measure, preserved from mispending their 
time, and >rom acquiring a habit ot idleness. It ap- 
pears Irom the minutes ot the managers, that some 
of the boys who have attended this school, have since 



252 SOCIETY FOR SUPPORT OF CHARITY SCHOOLS. 

become opulent and respectable members of the 
community. 

The present income of the society is IS400 50. 

President — Right Rev. William White, D. D. 

2. The Philadelphia Society for the Efitablishniejit and 
Support of Charity Schools. 

This society originated in the following way. 

In the year 1799, a few young men, mostly ap~ 
prent ces and c'j>.rks, with some who had just com- 
menccd bus-ness, lormed themselves into a society 
under the niime oi '-'• The Philadelphia Society, for 
the instruction oi Indigent Boys." Their number 
did not exceed seven or eight. Alter obta ning a 
fev/ more associates, they opened a night school, in 
which Irom twenty to thuty scholars were instructed 
in the rudiments oi the English language, by the 
members, who officiated in weekly classes oI two. 
This school was kept open during the winters of 
1799 and 180O, and of IROl. The scholars made 
considerable progress. The expense of their tu'.tion 
was inconsiderable. As soon as the labours of the 
society became genernll)- known, a great accession 
of members took place. In the summer of 1801, 
such was the zeal and confidence oi: the members, 
that they resolved to establish a day school, and 
thereby incur an expense o< trom 600 to 800 dollars, 
which expense was to be wholly deirayed from the 
contributions ot the members. Arrangements were 
making to open in the autumn, when a circumstance 
occurred wh;ch finally placed the institution beyond 
all danger of failure. Pvlr. Christopher Ludwick, an 
old and respectable German citizen, died in the 
month of June 1801, leaving the residue of his es- 
tate, which was estimated at g 10,000 or 12,000, as 
his mite, to the first association of persons who 



SOCIETY FOR SUPPORT OP CHARITY SftHOOLS. 253 

should be incorporated, for the purpose of teaching, 
gratis, the poor of all denominations in the city of 
Philadelphia, the districts of Southvvark and the 
Northern Liberties, without respect to the country 
or religion of their parents or friends. As soon as 
the contents of the will became public, several asso- 
ciations were attempted but all gave way, except that 
of the trustees or the University oi Pennsylvania, who 
formed themselves into a society tor the purpose al- 
luded to, and applied for a charter, under the provi- 
sions of an act of assembly ot this state. A similar 
application was made by the members of the Phila- 
delphia Society, who formed a more perfect constitu- 
tion, and assumed a new name, " The Philadelphia 
Societ)^ for the Establishment and Support oi Charity 
Schools." The governor (M'Kean) signed both chat- 
ters at the same time ; and the Philadelphia Soci- 
ety being first incorporated, became entitled to, and 
received SlO,000 irom the executors oi Mr. Lud- 
wick. They further expect to receive, on the death 
of Mrs. L. some real estate, in which she has a life 
interest.* 

The school is kept in a house, erected on purpose, 
in Walnut street, between Sixth and Seventh : 30 
feet front, and 80 deep : the lot is 48 1-2 by 140. 



* There was so much active benevolence, and generous zeal, 
connected with the measure of procuring- the charter, that it 
would be unjust to a meritorious individual not to mention the 
facts. As the devise of Mr. Ludwick belonged to the society first 
incorporated, it became all-important to reach Lancaster first, 
in order to obtain the enrollment of the instrument, until which 
the act was not complete- The trustees of the University liired aii 
express rider. The president of the Philadelphia Society, Joseph 
Bennet Eves, undertook, on behalf of that society, to go to 
Lancaster. Both left Philadelphia at 12 o'clock on the fth of 
September, 1801. Mr. Eves reached Lancaster (66 miles) in sev- 
en hours. The express gave up the journey, after proceediflgi- 

r 



254 AIMWELL SCHOOL SOCIETY. 



3. Aimrvell School Society. 

The origin of this association is as follows. 

In the year 1796, three young women resolved to 
Unite their exertions in instructing a few poor, igno- 
rant and neglected female children, and accordingly 



part of the way. The act of incorporation is dated the 8th of Sep* 
tember, 1801. 

Abstracts from the accounts of the treasurer, and the report 
of the board of managers of the Philadelphia Society, for the es- 
tablishment and support of Charity Schools, for the year 1810. 

RECEIPTS. 
In the treasury at commencement of the year, - g2831 17 

Contribution of members, 1224 10 

Installation of new members, .... l4 

Rent of cellar, under school house, ... 80 

Do. lot in Kensington, -...-. 12 

Interest of loan office certificate, - - - - 54 16 

Do. bonds and mortgages, .... - 56820 

Dividends of bank stock, 45 

Pi-incipal of bonds and mortgages, ... 1733 33 

6561 96 
PAYMENTS. 
Lent on mortgage, 3100 

.Enlarging school house, .... 1264 39 

EXPENSES OF SCHOOL, viz. 
Salaries of two teachers, . - l3J0 
Incidental, for books and stationarj^, 153 SO 

1453 50 

Ground occupied by C. Ludwick's tomb, 

Germantown, 20 

Insurance, .--..-.57 24 
Commissions to collector of contributions, - 41 95 
Repairs to building and contingencies, - 73 35 

jEtecting an air heater, - - - - 6u 28 

3071 41 

Balance in treasury, January 1, 1811, $490 55 



A^IWELL SCHOOL SOCIETY. 255 

opened a small school room, in which some of the 
most useful branches of learning were taught, viz. 
sewing, reading, writing, and arithmetic. In the 
course of the first year several joined the little as- 
sociation, and thus the school was maintained for 
more than two years : by that time it had so much 
increased, that it was judged necessary to hire a 



CAPITAL STOCK. 

United States converted six per cent, • 903 17" 

Farmers and .VIechanics Bank, 10 shares, - 700 

Bonds and Mortgages, .... 8282 40 

Schuylkill permanent bridge, 5 shares, - 50 

Philadelphia library, 1 share, . - . 4O 

^9975 57 
REAL ESTATE. 
A lot of ground in Kensington, rented at twelve dollars pev 
annum * School house and lot of ground in Walnut street, actual 
cost, ^10460 14- The number of members now belonging to the 
society is 228, each of whom pay 5 dollars per annum, towards 
the support of the school. 

The legacies received by the society have all been invested 
in productive stock and real estate ; and are as follows, viz. 
From Christopher Ludwick's estate, - - - §103 40 
JohnKeble's do. - - - - 3000 

Thomas Kuisey's do. - - - 160 

Catharine Zimminnan's do. » . . . 106 67 
Ruth Garland's do. , . - 100 

Mary Cannon's do. . . >. . 66 4S 



gl3,773 13 
STATE OF THE SCHOOL. 
There were under the care of the institution, at the commence- 
ment of the year, - - ... 278 boys 
Bischarged during the year ... 181 

97 
Admitted do. - - - - . 130 

Remaining in school, .... 227 

* Part of this lot was a donation of John Dickinson, esq. Lite 
of Wilmington, (Delaware) deceased. 



256 AIMWELL 1SCH00L SOCIETY. 

person to take charge of the sewing; the member^ 
still continuing to attend to all the other business of 
the school. At the end of twelve years, a writing 
master was employed under the direction of the so- 
ciety, the members of which visit it almost daily; 
and in case of the absence of either of the teachers, 
from sickness or otherwise, supply the vacancy. 

From the year 1798 to 1800, the number of scho- 
lars was limited to fifty; since that period, sixty-five 



Of whom 109 can read, write and cipher — nearly all of them 
having received the whole of their education in the Seminary. 

The 181 discharged were chiefly apprenticed — 81 of them 
could read, write and cipher. 

The expense of tuition this year, amounted to ^5 81 each, on 
the average number of scholars. 

There have been 752 boys admitted into the school, since the 
incorporation of the society, September 8, 1801. 

When two teachers were employed, the board had in con- 
templation a larger number of scholars, but finding in the course 
of the year, that one teacher would be fully competent to the 
care of all that had been admitted, the services of the othec 
ha^'e been dispensed with; and, as the salaries of the teachers 
formed the principal items in the expenses of the school, this 
diminution will reduce the amount of tuition to less than g,3 50 
per annum for each scliolar, the year ensuing. 

It is contemjilatod to open a school for girls, in the room 
lately occupied by tlie boys, as soon as suitable sui)erintendent3 
can be procured. 

Clijldren of the poor, of all denominations, in the city of Phi- 
ladelphia, district of Southwark, and the Nortliern Liberties, 
Avithout respect to the counti-y or religion of tlieir parents or 
friends, are objects of the care of the institution, and may be 
admuted on application to the teacher at the school house in 
■Walnut street, or to cither of the members of the Board of 
Managers. 

J/oiiations, in aid of the funds, may be made to either of the 
members of the Board. 

Published by order of the Society. 

THOMAS BRAUFOllD, President. 
JO'^KI'H R KAMMEREK, Vice President.- 
BEN.fAMIN WILLIAMS, Treasurer. 
STEPHEN NORTH, Secretary. 



PHILADELPHIA UNION SOCIETY, 257 

"have been constantly instructed. Many are always 
waiting- for vacancies. Any who are unable to pay 
for their instruction, are considered suitable objects 
for the school, and none are rejected on account of 
their religious profession, although no " Friend's 
children," have ever partaken of its benefits. 

This association under the title of " The Society 
for the free Instruction of Female Children," con- 
sists generally of eighteen members, who raise a sum 
annually, among themselves, towards the support of 
the school; which, with a lew occasional donations, 
were all the means they had for carrying it on tor 
several years : but an annual subscription is now 
opened for the purpose, the amount of which, how- 
ever, is only sufficient to defray about one hali the 
expense, not including rent, (a school room having 
been granted, free of charge, by the Society of 
Friends.) The school is now kept in the Friends 



4. Philadelphia Union Society^ 

Was formed in 1804, and "owes its origin to two> 
female societies, the members of which belonged to 
the second and third Presbyterian Churches in Phi- 
ladelphia, and who associated for pious purposes. 
In addition to their personal improvement, they were 
desirous of adopting some plan by which they might 
be serviceable to their fellow creatures, and promote 
especially their religious interests. Under the in- 
fluence of these sentiments, it was resolved to endea- 
vour to establish a school for the instruction of poor 
female children." This was opened in January 1805,, 
and children of all sects were admitted. A female 
teacher was appointed to take charge of the school,, 
and a committee of twelve members was appointed, 
to attend with the teacher, not only for the purpose 
Y 2 



258 ST. JOSEPH'S SOCIETY. 

of assisting in the discharge oi her ordinary duties, 
but to aid in inculcating sentiments or piety and vir- 
tue, an essential part ol the design of the institution. 
Sixty children were in a short time received into the 
school. 

The institution depends upon subscription of one 
dollar annually, and upon occasional donations and 
legacies, for its support. Of the latter it has received 
two, one of ^266 66, from the estate of the late 
Miss Ann Smith, one of the original founders of the 
society, and another of ^200, from the late Miss E. 
C. Budd. 

The school is now held back of the Second Pres- 
byterian church. 

More than 300 children have been taught to read, 
write and sew ; have committed to memory large 
portions of holy Scripture, many devout hymns, and 
have been instructed in such catechism as was most 
:^pproved of by their parents. 

In 1805-6 and 7, the receipts were ^1576 11 
Expenses 1174 34 

S401 77 

The society was incorporated in 1808. Its title 
is, " The Philadelphia Union Society, for the Edu- 
cation of Poor Female Children." 

President— Mrs. M. M^MuUin, 114, S. Front st. 

Secretary — Miss H. Ord, 354, do. 

Treasurer — Miss Eliza Hall, 71, High street. 

5. Si. Joseplt's Society. 

This societ}' is composed of members of the Ro- 
dman Catholic persuasion, and was instituted not only 
for educating, but maintaining poor orphan children. 
It was incorporated in 1807. 



ADELPHI SCHOOL. 259 

The capital is S4,397 90. Fifteen orphan children 
•were clothed, schooled, and relieved while sick, dur- 
ing the year ending the 19th of March last, 1811. 

President — Right Rev. Bishop Egan, 

Vice President — Edward Carrell. 

Treasurer — James O'Ellers. 

Secretary — J. Maitland. 

6. Adelphi School, 

This establishment was formed in 1807; and the 
society incorporated in 1808, under the title of "The 
Philadelphia Association of Friends, for the Instruc- 
tion of Poor Children." 

The plan of instruction is that of Lancaster, but 
improved. 

The corporation consists of no more than 45 per- 
sons, and they must be of the society of Friends. 

The affairs of the society are managed by twelve 
directors, a treasurer and clerk, appointed annually. 
The managers superintend the schools, provide lor 
their accommodation, and employ teachers. 

The school opened on the 11th of January, 1808. 
In settling the mode of conducting the school, much 
information was obtained in consequence of a visit 
paid by several of the members, with the tutor, to a 
school ol the same kind previously established in the 
city of New York, and from reading Lancaster's 
book. The school is now held in a house, 70 feet 
front by 35 feet deep, and is calculated to contain, in 
two rooms, 600 scholars. The number at present 
(July 1811) is about 200, whose progress will bear 
a comparison with that ol other schools. It is calcu- 
lated that the annual expense of the school, including 
teacher's salary, fire wood, stationary, &c. will 
amount to the sum of 1200 dollars, or at the rate of 
four dollars a vear for each scholar. This calculation. 



■■2Sb ADELPHI SCHOOL. 

however, is founded upon the supposition of the full 
compliment of pupils being made up, to wit, 300. No 
children under five, nor more than thirteen years old, 
are taken. Those who choose to pay for their chil- 
dren, may have them admitted upon paying one 
dollar for each child, quarterly. Subscribers paying 
four dollars annually, or upwards, are authorised to 
recommend any number of suitable objects, who will 
be taken on the lists of applicants, and admitted ac- 
cording to priority, as vacancies occur. Fifty dollars 
entitle a person to the privilege of an annual contri- 
butor for life. 

The managers avoid inculcating particular tenets- 
of religion : " but enforce, with all reasonable and 
practicable assiduity, the laws (if morality, and 
obligations of virtue:" and though they consider 
themselves enjoined to embrace every suitable occa- 
sion to imbue the minds of the children, with a just 
and solemn sense of their religious duties, as derived 
from the gospel, yet it is their design to confine 
themselves to its most obvious truths, according to 
their generally received acceptation. The Bible is 
the only religious book taught in the school. 

The school is built upon part of two lots in Peg's 
street, Northern Liberties, presented to the society 
by William Sansom and Thomas Scattergood. 

The association have published, " A Sketch of the 
Origin and Progress of the Adelphi School," con- 
taining also rules for its government, bye laws, 
names of contributors, and a sketch of the mode of 
education adopted in the school, which may be had 
by application to any of the managers. 

Managers — John Paul, John C. Evans, David 
Jones, Clement Biddle, jun. Isaac Donaldson, Sa- 
muel Haydock, James P. Parke, Roberts Vaux, 



VARIOUS FREE SCHOOLS, ?61 

Reuben Haines, Charles Allen, Robert Smith, juni 
Ben'amin Ferris. 

Roberts Vaux, Secretary to the Board. 

James P. Parke, Recorder of Admissions. 

Treasurer — John Cooke. 

Clerk of the Association — Elihu Pickering. 

Besides the above schools for the gratuitous edu- 
cation of poor children, there are a number of other 
schools, belonging to different religious societies. 
Thus, the Friends have several schools belonging 
to their corporation,* from the foundation of which, 
part of their funds have been devoted to the free 
education of poor children of all denominations. For 
many years past, and at present, one hundred scho- 
lars annually, of that description, derive the benefit 
of its patronage. 

The funds of the school corporation have been in- 
creased by the bequests of several members of the 
society; among whom, the late alderman Carter de- 
serves to be particularly noticed. 

The United Episcopal Churches have one free 
school, consiating of 60 boys; and one, of about 40 
girls. The second Presbyterian Church has one 
free school. The German Lutherans have six schools, 
in some of which boys and girls are taught together, 
and in some separately. The German language is 
taught in all, and the catechism oi the church com- 
mitted to memory ; in some arithmetic is taught. 
An academy for teaching the learned languages was 
lately commenced by that soc-ety. The German Cal- 
vinists, or Reformed Church, have two schools ; and 
the Catholics have two schor^ls ; in all of which, poor 
children, in membership with the several religious 
societies, are educated gratis. The University of 



* " Friend's Public Schools, founded by charter of Wm. Peno, 
in tlie town and county of Philadelphia, 1697." 



262 SCHOOLS FOR BLACKS. 

Pennsylvania also, has had a charitable school con- 
nected with that institution, since its ioundation. 

Public Provision for Free Education* 

By a law, passed April 4, 1809, by the legislature 
of Pennsylvania, the poor were permitted to send their 
children to the most convenient school. The teacher 
of which is to present his bill to the county commis- 
sioners, who ii they approve thereof, shall draw an 
order for the same upon the county treasurer for the 
amount. The price to be charged is to " be agreeably 
to the usual rates of charging lor tuition in the said 
school." 

In the counties of the state, where the terms of 
tuition are moderate, this lav/ has been found useful, 
but in Philadelphia, where the poor are numerous, 
and the price of teaching in some schools is high, 
the tax upon the city and county has been found 
enormously oppressive, and the law by no means 
productive of good proportioned thereto, as the fol- 
lowing facts will shew. From the 1st of January to 
July 27, 1811, 1828 scholars have been educated, 
at an expense of Sl2,124, 27, which is at the rate of 
jSll, 63 per scholar annually, while the expense of the 
charity school, in Walnut street, is only !g5 81, and 
that of the Adelphi School is ^4 per year. 

Schools for the Education of Blacks, 

The following schools have been instituted for the 
free education of blacks. 

In the year 1770, a school was established by the 
monthly meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, under 
the tuition of a master, and superintended by a 
committee of said meeting. It was lor many years 
supported by the voluntary contributions of Friends*. 



SCHOOLS FOR BLACKS. 263 

Anthony Benezet, who served several years on the 
committee, and who had the charge of this school^ 
became so interested in its behaL, that in the year 
1 782, he took upon him the tuition thereof, and con- 
tinued in that situation until his death, (the 3d of 
May, 1784) and by his last will and testament be- 
queathed a large sum towards its further support. 
In September, 1784, another school was opened by 
the committee, under the tuition of a mistress, both 
which schools have been continued to this time, and 
are at present under the care of a joint committee, 
appointed by the three monthly meetings of Friends 
m this city. The present income of this institution 
is principally vested in ground rents, amounting to 
rather more than 650 dollars, annually, out of which 
a considerable sum is paid for taxes. The average 
number of scholars attending in the two schools is 
between 70 and 80. The boys are taught reading, 
writing and arithmetic : and the girls, reading, wri- 
ting and sewing. The schools are held in Willing's 
alley. 

Two schools, one for boys, and one for girls, are 
supported out of the funds left to the late Dr. Bray, 
and to the trustees of his charity.* Ten negro boys, 
and about 50 girls are constantly educated. In the 
-school with the boys, there are also thirty pay scho- 
lars under the same master. 

_ The African church oi St. Thomas has a school, 
in which forty pay scholars are instructed by a 



The trustees in Philadelphia, of " the associates of Dr. Bray, 
m Londoii," are the Rev. Dr. White, Rev. Dr. Blackwell, and 
Thomas Cumpston, Esq. (See An Account of the designs of the 
Associates of the late Dr. Bray, with an Abstract of their pro- 
ceeduig-s, London I8j0.) The sum originally remitted, after the 
peace of 1783, was £50Q. By time ajid judicious management, 
this sum has so mcreased, that ^460 have been icturned to the 
trustees in London, and enough stiU retained for tke purposes 
designed by the donors. ^ 



264> DOMESTIC SOCIETY. 

black teacher. The " Union Society,"* has also a 
school in which 40 boys are instructed, by a white 
teacher. Another school is kept by a coloured mart, 
in which there are upwards of 40 boys, who pay. 

Patriotic Societies — 1. Domestic Society, 

Was established in the year 1805, for the encou- 
ifagement ot domest-c manufactures. The capital 
stock consists of ten thousand dollars, divided into 
two hundred shares of fifty dollars. By charter, li- 
berty is given to increase the capital to 1^50,000. 
The affairs of the society are managed bv a presi- 
dent, s.cretary, treasurer, and twelve directors, 
elected on the first Monday in February of every 
year. The treasurer must give a bond for the iaith- 
ful performance of his eiuty. The directors are au- 
thorised to lay out the funds, to regulate the affairs 
of the society generally, to make advances either in 
cash or raw materials, as shall suit the applicants, upon 
all American manufactures of woollen, cotton or li- 
nen, amounting to one half of the affixed value of the 
articles, when deposited in the ware house of the 
society^ and pay the residue when sold, charging and 
deducting therefrom legal interest, for the time the 
money may remain in advance upon the goods, and 
such a commission as shall be affixed by the board on 
effecting the sales. This has been fixed at 5 per cent. 
li the articles deposited remain six months on hand, 
the board may then sell them at auction, and the 
neat proceeds duly placed to the credit of the own- 
ers. The directors may purchase raw materials. 
The board meet once in two weeks; other articles 



* "The Union Society for the support of schools and domestic 
•ananufactures, for the benefit of the African race, and people of 
celowj established 1810." 



DOMESTIC SOCIETY. 266 

besides those mentioned, may be received and sold 
on comiTi'Ssion, but no adv^ances are made on themi 
They may be withdrawn upon paying storage. 
The treasurer shall deliver a general statement of 
the funds of the institution, once every month, at a 
regular meeting of the board. Shares are trans. erra- 
ble, upon paying twenty- five cents lor the certificate. 
No transfers shall entitle any one to a vote, unless 
made at least thirty days prior to the day of election. 
The board shall, at least twenty days prior to the 
expiration of the term for which they are elected, 
call a general meeting of the stockholders, and lay 
before them a tull statement of the funds of the so- 
ciety. Stockholders must be citizens of the United 
States. 

Monies are to be paid only upon the order of the 
president, countersigned bj' the sccretur}-. The 
society is incorporated by the legislature of Penn- 
sylvania. 

President — Paul Cox. Warehouse, No. 11, south 
Third street. 

Money is lent to manufacturers on good notes, up- 
on legal interest ; and in this way the society has 
done a great deal of good. When established, it 
was ascertained, that five hundred v/eavers could not 
find employment, and to obtain a living were forced 
to engage in other work: by assistance from the so- 
ciety all are employed ; the dividends have yielded 
to the stockholders six per cent, and sometimes eight 
per cent., but interest was but a secondary conside- 
ration with the subscribers. Every city and populous 
town should establish a similar society, as it is only 
in this way, that the permanent, the real indepen- 
dence of the country, can be established, and our 
workmen and money kept at home. 



356 AGRICULTURAL AND CATTLE SOCIETIES. 



2. Agricultural Society, 

'* This society was formed in the year 1785, by 
;5ome citizens, only a few of whom were actually 
engaged in husbandry, but who were convinced of 
its necessity, and of the assistance which such an 
association, properly attended to, would afford to 
the interests of agriculture. The society continued 
to meet regularly for several years, and published 
numerous communications from practical men, in 
the newspapers of the day, on various interesting 
subjects; and thereby contributed to diffuse the know- 
ledge of many Improvements in agriculture ; the 
general adoption whereof, has visibly tended to in- 
crease the product, and to improve the qualities of 
the soil of Pennsylvania. 

" After several years of active exertion, the so- 
ciety was permitted to fall into a long sleep, but was 
again revived, in the winter of 1804, and holds re- 
gular meetings."* It was incorporated in February 
1809. Two volumes of Memoirs, in 8vo, have been 
published; the first in 1808: the second during the 
present year.f The society meet in the philosophical 
hall, the 2d Tuesday of every month. 

President — Richard Peters. 

Vice President — George Clvmer. 

Treasurer — Samuel Hodgdon. 

Secretary — James Mease, M. D. 

3. Cattle Society. 

This society was instituted in the year 1809, 
for improving the breed of cattle, in Pennsylvania, 
by several persons concerned in grazing, and resid- 



* Preface to Memoirs of the Society, vol. 1. 
f By Johnson and Warner. 



CARPENTER'S COMPANY. 26/ 

ing in and near Philadelphia. They have published 
an address to the public, explaining the object of the 
association, and have proposed several premiums, 
for importing certain improved breeds of cattle 
from Europe, and for originating them at home. 
Two premiums have already been taken, one for 
Si 00: the other for goO. 

Shows are held every spring and autumn at Bush- 
hill, (which has been leased by the society) for 
the exhibition and sale of every species of farm 
stock ; poor, fat, and those destined for breeding. 

President — Lawrence Seckel. 

Treasurer — Wm. Guier. 

The good effects of this society have already been 
perceived. It meets the first Monday in every 
month, in the philosophical hall. 

Mutual Benefit Societies — 1. Carpenter'* s Company, 

In the year 1724, a number of house carpenters of 
the city and county of Philadelphia, formed them- 
selves into a company, tor the double purpose of 
obtaining instruction in the science of architecture, 
and of assisting such of their members as should 
by accident be in need of support, or the widows and 
minor children of members. They remained unin- 
corporated until the year 1790, when they obtained 
a charter by an act of the legislature. The corpora- 
tion meets on the third Monday of January, April, 
July and October, and on the same day of the week, 
in the same months, in every year at their hall, or 
other appointed place. A committee of seven, an- 
nually chosen, manage the affairs of the corporation. 
They may let their hall, or other estate of the corpo- 
ration, for any term not exceeding two years: keep 
the buildings in repair, and settle the accounts of the 
company : one of them collects the rents, and re- 



^68 SHIP MASTER'S SOCIETY. 

ceives the members money from the wardens, oi 
whom there are three. Members, widows, or minor 
children, in want or in sickness, may receive from 
the committee any sum under ibrty dollars, until the 
next meeting ; when if further aid be deemed ne- 
cessary, the company determine the amount. The 
admission money is forty dollars. Sons of deceased 
members are admitted without a fee. 

No members may undertake work, begun by 
other members, until the first undertaker is satisfied 
for the work done, unless by his or their consent, 
under penalty of paying such sum as a majority of 
the members may judge reasonable. Provision is 
made for obliging members to do justice to an em- 
ployer; and for the settlement of disputes. No slaves 
are to be hired or taken as apprentices. Ten dollars 
is chc fine >or divulging the sentiments of members 
when discuss Rg a question, and five dollars for 
slievv ing the book of prices to anv except ?. member ; 
iwi UmJ ovtoncl oiTence ten dollars, and for permit- 
ting a copy to be taken, the member is expelled. 

The children of m.embers deceased, (with the ap- 
probation oi the widow, if one be leSt,) are protected 
by the society, and bound out to such trades as 
may suit their situation or dispositions. This society 
own a hall where the custom house is now kept, 
in a court south ol Chesnut street, between Third 
and Fourdi streets, and a range of buildings in the 
same court. The hall was built before the revolution- 
ary war. 

President — George Ingles. 

2. Ship Master'' s Society. 

A society for the relief of poor and distressed 
masters of ships, their widows, and chddren," was 
instituted in the year 1765, and incorporated in the 
year 1770, by the colonial legislature. 



SHIP MASTER'S SOCIETY, 269 

There are twelve managers, and a treasurer an- 
nually chosen ; . a statement of the accounts is pub- 
lished every year.* 

Entrance money, forty dollars : quarterly con- 
tribution, fifty cents. The president is chosen every 
three months. The assistance to widows of de- 



* Abstractof the accounts of the Society, "For the relief of poor 
and distressed Masters of Ships, their Widows and Children," 
being a summary of the receipts and payments, from the 30th 
April, 1810, to the 30th April, 1811, as settled by a committee 
of the society, specially appointed for that purpose. 
CASH DR.— 
TO Balance in the hands of the Treasurer, April 30th, 

1810, ..... ^505 83 

Quarterly payments and fines received, - 418 30 

Subscription'of new members, - - 155 20 

Donation from the post office, - - - 314 32 

Intei-est and part of the principal of the United 

States stock, .... 

Dividends from the Banks, ... 

Dividends from the Turnpike, 
City loan Interest, and a part of the principal. 
Donation, ..... 

Principal and Interest of I O — — 's bond and 

mortgage, . . . . - 

Principal of exchange stock. 
Interest on Bonds, - - ... 



1435 


51 


734 


_ 


72 


— 


254 





263 


38 


537 


_ 


1000 





106 


— 



§5/93 54 



CR— 

BY Charities paid sundry persons. 

Cash for stock, - - - - . 

Managers orders on account of stock. 
Ditto ditto Contingent fund. 

Balance in the hands of the Treasurer, Charities, 
Ditto - , - - Contingent fund, 

Ditto - - - Stock, 



SAMUEL VOLANS, Treasurer. 
Pbiladelphia, ^lay, 1311. 



S2024 




2815 


62 


182 


34 


56 


7 


434 97 


196 


23 


83 


95 


^7935 


40 



270 PILOT'S— INIARlNEirS— AND STONE CUTTER'S, 

ceased members, is in proportion to their wants ; 
the smallest sum ihat can be given is forty dollars 
annually. Funeral expenses oi members are paid if 
required. Orphan children of deceased members 
are taken care of by the society, until fit to be put 
to trades. 

3. Filofs Society, 

A society for the benefit of" decayed pilots, the'r 
widows and children," was formed in the year 1788, 
and incorporated in the year 1789. Its affairs are 
managed by twelve members, chosen from Phila- 
delphia, Cape Henlopen, and Cape May ; a general 
meeting of the society takes place twice a year. 
Members pay Si, 50, annually: and the treasurer 
annually publishes a statement of the funds. Wi- 
dows of members may receive ^60 annually. 

The capital of the society is about S8,000. 

Treasurer — Stephen Flanagan. 

4. Mariner^ s Society, 

Entrance money, five dollars ; monthly payments, 
ihirty-one cents ; allowance to sick, three dollar 
weekly ; to members wives at the decease of their 
husbands, twenty dollars, and thirty three cents from 
each member. If a member die abroad, his widow 
receives only thirty-three cents from each member. 

President— George Chart. 

Vice President — John Dick. 

Secretary — John Bisset, 

5. Stone Cuttet^s Company^ 

Was established in the year 1790, and incorpo- 
rated in 1806, until which time the sole object of its 
association was^ from time to time, to regulate the 



MASTER BRICK LAYER'S SOCIETY. 271 

measurement and prices of stone work, and other 
general concerns, an inattention to which, had caus- 
ed much gross imposition to be practised upon the 
public. Its views are now more comprehensive, 
being " formed for the reliet oi poor and distressed 
stone cutters, their widows and children ; and for 
the improvement of the art ol stone cutting, and 
of the science of architecture." A system for the 
measurement of marble work is laid down, and a 
list ot prices formed, subject to alterations and ad- 
ditions, as the prices of labour and materials may re- 
quire. The bye laws provide for the relief of mem- 
bers employed by those who will not appoint a per- 
son to measure and value for them, and when a mem- 
ber will not consent to have his work measured. They 
also contain a provision expressly intended to defend 
the public from imposition by work of a bad quality, 
or irom injury by unreasonably delaying to execute 
it. Application for redress in such cases is to be made 
to the president ot the company. 

The system of measurement and prices are not kept 
secret : every person desiring it, may have a bill of 
particulars, stating minutely the measurement and 
prices of each article, upon paying an additional 
measuring commission, ior the extra trouble. En- 
trance money is ten dollars. Annual contribution 
four dollars. 

It is contemplated to establish an architectural 
library, with such models and moulds as may be 
worthy ol preservation. 

President — John Miller, M. C. 

6. Master Bricklayer'' s Society. 

Incorporated, 1809. It was instituted upon the 
plan of the Stone Cutter's Society ; as a benefit asso- 



372 TYPOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY. 

elation, and to measure work. Besides the usual 
officers, there are twelve measurers of work. 
President — John Taylor. 

7. Mutual Assistant Society of Hair Dressers^ Surgeon 
Barbers^ ^c, 

Thissociety was instituted and incorporated in 1796. 
Members pay ten dollars admission fee, and thirty 
seven and a half cents, monthly, into the common 
stock, and twelve and a half cents towards defraying 
expenses of the regular meetings, which are monthly. 
Members must be twenty-one years old, and not 
above forty-one years. Weekly allowance to members, 
four dollars ; his customers are also to be attended. 
The stewards appoint the member to attend the cus- 
tomers of the sick. At the death of a member, wi- 
dows or friends receive forty dollars, within one 
week after his decease. 

President — John Murdock. 

8. Typographical Society. 

One of the last acts of the life of the venerable 
Franklin, was to assist in the organization of a be- 
nefit society of Journeymen Printers, who held their 
meetings during his life time at his house. This 
society was dissolved in the year 1795. In the year 
1802, another was instituted, and incorporated in- 
1810, under the name of the " Philadelphia Typo- 
graphical Society." It was formed not only upon the 
principle of mutual benefit, but also to equalise the 
price of labour, and thus to prevent imposition tak- 
ing place upon the journeyman and employer. It 
meets monthly, and is managed by the usual officers, 
chosen annually ; and twelve directors, who divide 
themselves into four classes, the members of which 
hold their offices during the term of one, two, three,. 



TYPOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY. 273 

and four months; so that at every monthly meeting 
there may be an election of three directors. The 
secretary is appointed by the president and the di- 
rectors. No persons are eligible as members, who 
are not citizens of Pennsylvania, and who shall not 
have served an apprenticeship satisfactory to the 
board of directors, to whom he may make application 
in person. Besides entrance money, the amount of 
■which is discretionary with the board of directors, 
twenty five cents are paid monthly, until he has been 
ten years a member, or be rendered incapable, by 
sickness or otherwise, to pay. Neglecting to pay for 
three months deprives a member of a vote, and of 
any benefit from the society. After one year's defal- 
cation, he ceases to be a member. Neglect to pay 
fines or forfeitures for three months, deprives a 
member of a vote. Persons actually sick, or absent, 
are excused. Thirty dollars being paid on admis- 
sion, is considered equal to ten years monthly sub- 
scription. Three dollars, but no more, per week are 
allowed to any sick member. If absent and sick, the 
money is remitted to him, upon proper certificates 
being forwarded to the president ; but he must have 
belonged six months to the society, or be a stranger 
and in absolute distress, to entitle him to that relief. 
Twenty-five dollars are allowed in case of the death 
of a member. 

The members deem themselves bound to procure 
employment for one another in preference to those 
not belonging to the society ; hence there is no ex- 
cuse ior a single member to be idle, and so mucli 
celebrity has this society obtained, that employers, 
not only in the city, but in all parts of the United 
States, when in want ol good workmen, apply to the 
president to recommend them. The annual income 
fif the real estate of the society is not to exceed five 



274, MASTER TAYLOR'S, ANB PROVTDENt SOCIETY. 

hundred pounds. Their personal estate, at presentj 
amounts to about sixteen hundred dollars. Members 
are dispersed through every part of the union. 
President — Horatio Boate. 

9. Master Taylor:^. 

Incorporated, 1805. Admission money, seven dol- 
Jars. Stated meetings, second Monday in January, 
April, July, and October; at each meeting every 
member is to pay twenty-five cents. Funeral ex- 
penses of poor members are defrayed by the society. 
None but those who have been members two years, 
are entitled to pecuniary aid from the society, except 
in the case of funeral expenses. Members neglecting 
to pay fines or contributions, for one year, after due 
notice, forfeit their right to the benefits of the 
society. 

President — Benjamin Thaw. 

10. Provident Society of House Carpenters. 

Incorporated 1809. The members must be between 
twenty-one and forty-one years, healthy, and of good 
morals. Admission fee, two dollars. The stated meet- 
ings are on the third Tuesday of every month. 
Monthly payments, thirty-one and a quarter cents. 
The secretary must notify members of their fines, or 
pay the amount himself. A visiting committee, 
transact the business relative to the sick ; visit wi- 
dows and orphans of deceased members, and report 
their wants to the society. Sick members must be 
visited in twenty-four hours after receiving a notice 
of their illness ; if entitled to relief they must inform 
the president, after one week, who orders payment 
of the stipulated sum. The visiting committee are 
required to visit the widows of members, in com- 



MASTER MECHANIC'S SOCIETY. ^75 

pany with the president, at least once in three 
months. Thirty dollars are allowed upon the death 
of a member, and fifteen dollars in case of that of 
his wife ; and at the next meeting ensuing, each 
member contributes twenty-five cents, or twelve and 
a half cents, either as a member or his wife may 
have died. Weekly allowance to sick, three dollars. 
President — Thomas Wood. 

11. Master Mechanic's Benevolent Society, 

Was instituted in the year 1810. Candidates for 
membership must have been master mechanics, at 
least two years previously to their application for 
admission ; be twenty-three years old, and recom- 
mended by two members. Members pav ten dollars 
on admission. The society meets five times yearly j 
and pay four dollars annually, by installments of one 
dollar. No person may be eligible to any office, until 
he has been twelve months a member. The visiting 
committee, consisting of five, transact all business 
relative to sick members, report their situation to 
the president, and carry the money he orders, to 
tiiem. Two of the committee visit him once during 
his sickness. In case of death, report is made to the 
society of the situation of the widow and children, 
their names and ages. Children educated by the 
society are under the care of the committee, who 
provide schools and visit them once in three months ; 
and at a proper age, with consent of their friends, 
provide suitable places for them. They also carry to 
the widow her quarterly allowance, and assist her 
by advice, if required. The fund committee receive 
ail monies of the society, and pay them to the trea- 
surer. The president and four of the committee 
must sign orders for money. Three hundred dollars 
must always be left in the treasurer's hands for in- 
cidental expenses. Thirty dollars are allowed tor 



276 PROVIDENT SOCIETY. 

funeral expenses of a member, if the situation ot 
his widow or children require help; not more than 
one hundred dollars are to be paid to any widow, 
annually. 

Similar societies are instituted by the Cordwainers^ 
whose capital is fifteen hundred dollars. By the 
Journeymen Blacksmiths ; Journeymen Taylors have 
two, viz. the Union and Philadelphia Benevolent; 
Hatters ; Journeymen Bricklayers ; for aged and 
infirm Master Coopers, their widows and children ; 
and by the Journeymen Coopers. In all, seventeen. 

Other Mutual Beneft Societies. 
These are numerous and annually increasing. 

1. Provident Society ^ 

Was instituted in 1793, and incorporated in 1796. 
Candidates must be 21 years of age, healthy and of 
good morals, and on admission, pay a sum agreeably 
to their ages, as lollows: If between twenty-one and 
thirty years, %1S; between thirty and thirty-five, 
Si 7; between th.rty-five and iorty, ;Sl9; if above 
forty years, S20. The society meet five times a year, 
and pay iour dollars annually in installments ot one 
dollar. Three dollars are alloM^ed, weekly, to sick 
members, after they have belonged to the society tor 
twelve months. Distant sick members may receive the 
allowance upon sending forward a certificate of their 
situation. A fund committee, collect all monies due 
to the society, and pay them to the treasurer; and 
draw upon him for such sums as they may agree to 
invest, or dispose of as may be most conducive to the 
interest of the society. One hundred dollars are al- 
ways to be left in the hands of the treasurer. In case 
of the death of a member, twenty dollars are ad- 



PniLANTHROPIG, AND COLUMBIAN SOCIETIES. 277 

vanced to defray expenses of funeral, and the same 
sum is to be paid to his widow, annually, while sin- 
gle. When the society's funds are more than three 
hundred dollars, orphans are clothed and educated, 
under the direction of the visiting committee, who 
with the president, are to visit the schools once in 
every three months. By a report, lately published, of 
the state of this society, it appears that the funds 
amount to nearly ^2,500. The number of members 
is 103. From the 3d of April, 1795, to April, 1811, 
S992 have been disbursed among fiity-two sick mem- 
bers; and ^2,251 among thirty-two widows ; ol this 
number, twelve are at present entitled to the benefit 
of the society ; and several of their children are aid- 
ed in their clothing and schooling. 
President — Liberty Browne, 

2. The Philanthropic Society^ 

Was also instituted in 1793, and incorporated ill 
1799. Entrance money So; quarterly dues, one dollar; 
allowance to sick, three dollars ; in case of the death 
of a member, twenty dollars are paid to defray the 
expenses of his funeral. If a member's v/ife die, he 
receives Sl4. On the death of a member, the survi- 
ving members contribute one quarter of a dollar each, 
to be paid to the widow, children or parents, if 
there be any. 

President — John Dennis. 

3. Cohimhian Benevolent Socictij. 

Instituted 1804. All well known, healthy citizens 

of Pennsylvania, are eligible ; but they must not be 

older than forty years, and not younger than tvv'cnty- 

three. Five stewards attend to the applications of the 

A a 



•278 VARIOUS BENEFIT SOCIETIES. 

sick. Monies are paid by the treasurer, upon an 
order from the stewards, to be approved of by the 
president, vice president, and signed by the secretary. 
Allowance to sick members, two dollars weekly ; 
twenty dollars in case oi death ol a member, and 
25 cents from each member to his widow. If the 
wife of a member die, he receives fifteen dollars. 

The following Benefit Societies also exist in Phi- 
ladelphia. 

4. American Beneficial Society. 105 members. 

5. St. Tammany Benevolent Society. 

6. Northern Liberty Benevolent Society. 

7. Union Beneficial Society. 

8. Philanthropic Society. 

9. Philadelphia Benevolent Society. 94 members. 

10. American Fnendly Institution. 100 members. 

11. Friendly Society ot Philadelphia, 

12. Union Society of Philadelphia. 

13. Independent Benevolent Society. 

14. Pennsylvania Benefit Society. 

15. Friendly Society. 

The objects, principles, and in general, the rules of 
these societies are the same. They were originally esta= 
blished to prevent the degrading reflection arising 
from the circumstanoe of being relieved, while sick, 
by private or public charity : the members may de- 
mand their reliei as a right. Fmes are generally 
inflicted upon members absent at stated meetings, 
and greater fines ii absent at the annual meetings: aiso 
for divulging any reflections made upon a member's 
character in the societ}^ ; for slandering membei:s, 
-unless the facts can be proved ; and lor irregular be- 
haviour during the meetings of the society. Fines, 
from two to eight dollars, are also inflicted upon 
those who decline servrng in the offices to which they 



SUMMARY OF THEIR RULES. 279 

have been elected. Distant sick members must have 
their illness certified by a magistrate, minister, or 
overseer of the poor, to entitle them to relief. 

No member receives the benefit of the association 
unless his quarterly subscriptions, and his fines are 
paid up ; nor until after he has been a certam time a 
member; from one to two years is the usual time 
stipulated. Diseases, the consequence of quarrels, 
drunkenness or vices, are not relieved. Provision is 
also made for orphans, for impositions on the so- 
ciety ; for expulsion for immoralities or crimes, pe- 
culation, or omission to pay subscriptions ; want of 
punctuality in this last respect, after two or three 
meetings, excludes a member from the benefit of the 
association. 

The treasurer commonly gives a bond, who, with 
the secretary, is allowed a small gratuity for extra 
trouble. The members comn-only are required to 
attend the luneral of deceased members, and to wear 
a black scarf round their hats or arm. 

Such societies cannot be too strongly recommend- 
ed. All classes of workmen, and others Avho depend 
upon their daily labour sor their support ; and who 
in case of their death would leave their families in 
distress, should be persuaded to form or join bene- 
volent societies. In Europe political economists are 
so well convinced of the importance of such asso- 
ciations, that they recommend them, althougli frcm 
the numerous taxes, the difficulty of procuring a liv- 
ing, by a labourer or artist, is so great, that they 
must retrench their com'orts to enable them to pay 
their subscriptions. In this country it is well known 
that every man, who chooses to work, even as a day 
labourer, can earn much more than he requires for 
his support ; and from not being a member o.^ such 
an association, the extra sjjim is squandered in va- 



'^80 ST. ANDREW'S SOCIETY. 

rious ways, according to the habits of the manj ^,0 
that when overtaken by sickness, he is unable to 
support himself, and either suffers, or is obliged to 
apply to the guardians of the poor, or be assisted by 
his friends ; even in the case of tradesmen, in a 
good way of business, such societies may prove 
highly beneficial, by preventing distress in case of 
unforeseen calamity, or lingering indisposition. 

■Associations for Relief of Foreign Emigrants. — 
1 . St. Andrexvs. 

.The oldest association for the relief of distressed 
emigrants, is the society of St. Andrew ; the date of 
Its formation cannot now be precisely ascertained, 
but it is know^n to have existed for many years be- 
fore the American revolution. It vp-as incorporated 
in 1808 ; the clear value or income of real estate, and 
the interest of the money lent by them shall not ex- 
ceed five hundred pounds. 

The active duties of the society devolve upon six 
assistants ; they are to pay attention to emigrants 
from Scotland, inquire into their treatment during 
the passage, and into their circumstances and views ; 
to assist them by their advice, and to recommend 
such of them as they may think proper to the society 
Ibr pecuniary relief. They may also relieve natives 
of Scotland, their widows and children, or being the 
widows, children, or grand children of members of 
the society : but must not exceed the sum of twenty 
dollars, in a donation to any one person, nor the 
sum of one hundred dollars in the whole, in the ad- 
vancements by them, between any two stated meet- 
ings. Members pay five dollars upon admission, and 
three annually. The society n>eet four times an- 



ST. GEORGE'S, WELSH, & HIBERNIAN SOCIETIES. 281 

nually ; on St. Andrew's day, and on the last days gi 
February, May, and August. 

President — Wm. M'Pherson. 

Treasurer — William Stothart. 

Secretary— Quintin Campbell, 

2. St. George^s Society^ 

Was instituted in the year 1772, for purposes si- 
milar to those of the former two ; but has not yet 
been incorporated. The active duties fall upon the 
stewards, of whom there are twelve. 

President — Robert E. Griffith. 

Vice President — Thomas Ketland. 

Treasurer — John Waddington. 

Secretary — George Davis. 

3. Welsh Society, 

The Society of St. David, was also formed before 
the American revolution, but the early records hav- 
ing been lost, the precise year of its origin cannot 
now be known. 

In the year 1798, a number of the descendents of 
Welshmen, associated for the purpose of relieving 
Welsh emigrants in distress, and were incorporated 
in 1802. This society has rendered very essential 
services, upon several- occasions, to the objects for 
whose benefit it was instituted. 

President — Samuel Meredith. 

Vice President — Robert Wharton. 

Treasurer — ^Thos. Cumpston. 

Secretary — J. S. Lewis. 

4. Hibernian Society. 

Was instituted about the year 1792, for the pur- 
pose of protecting Irish emigrants from th.e cruelty 
A a % 



282 HIBERNIAN SOCIETY. 

and tyrannical conduct of masters and owners of ves- 
sels employed in the passenger trade. 

Previously to the revolutionary war, and for some 
years immediately succeeding peace, the importa- 
tion of Irish and Germans was a profitable business, 
and was steadily followed by many persons. Those 
foreigners who could not pay for their passages, 
indented themselves, for two or three years as ser- 
vants ; and profit being the only object of those 
concerned in the trade, they often crowded their 
vessels to such a degree, that pestilential diseases 
originated on board, and great mortality ensued. 
The provisions too were oiten bad in quality, or 
deficient in quantity, and famine sometimes took off 
tjiose whom disease did not reach. 

Scenes like these were so often repeated, that they 
roused the humanity of several Irish gentlemen, 
some of whom had suffered by, and many of whom 
had witnessed the conduct of those concerned in the 
trade ; and associated for the purpose of checking 
the enormity. Several citizens, more particularly the 
natives of Germany and Scotland, seeing the great 
usefulness of the society, became members, and disre- 
garding national names, contributed to the funds and 
To the general usefulness of the society. 

The officers of the society, consist of a president, 
vice president, secretary and treasurer ; but the 
chief duty is imposed upon the acting committee of 
twelve, which is divided into four classes, each class 
taking a tour of duty for three months. This duty 
consists in visiting all vessels arriving in the port, 
from Ireland, with passengers, making strict inquiry 
into the character and circumstances of those passen- 
gers who may be in any necessity, and to afford thenn 
assistance. To inquire about the number of passen- 
gers on board, and if they have been in every re- 
spect well treated j and whether the masters ot 



CTNITED GERMAN BENEFIT SOCIETY-. 283 

freighters have conducted themselves agreeably to 
the laws for the regulation oi the passenger trade,* 
which, for want of attention, had been often shame- 
fully contravened : in case they find that these have 
been violated, or that the passengers have been in 
any way wronged, they are required to employ 
counsel to prosecute the offender. 

5. German Incorporated Society^ 

Was formed at a very early date, and incof/- 
porated September 20, 1781. Their objects are to 
attend to the wants of Germans arriving in the state; 
to teach and improve poor children in the English 
and German languages, and to erect a library. The 
income of their real estate must not exceed twenty- 
five hundred pounds. 

This society has a neat hall in Seventh street, one 
room of which, handsomely furnished, is exclusively 
appropriated to accommodate the society at their 
quarterly meetings. 

President — George A. Baker. 

3Iutual Benefit Societies of Foreigners and their 
Descendents. — 1. United Gernum Benefit Society ^ 

Was instituted in 1785; incorporated 1798, and 
consists of one hundred and fifteen native Germans, 
or descendents of Germans, between the ages of 
twenty-one and thirty-six, who pay three dollars 
entrance money. The society meets eight times a 



* So early as the year 1749, a law was passed by the colonial 
legislature for the regulation of the passenger trade ; in 1765, 
further provision was made ; and in 1794, an act was passed 
containing the most ample rules for the prevention of the evils 
arising from the avarice, or inhumanity, of those concerned In 
the trade. 



26i GERMAN AND CALEDONIAN SOCIETIES. 

year. Sick members, if confined to bed, receive four 
dollars per week ; if not confined, two dollars sixty- 
seven cents weekly. Widows, or lawful children, af- 
ter the death of a member, receive twenty dollars to 
assist in defraying funeral expenses. Lunatic, or in- 
firm members, who have been orderly, receive sub- 
scriptions, weekly, as a majority shall agree upon. 
President — William Binder. 

2. German Atnerican Mutual Assistance Society^ 

Was incorporated 1801. The funds amount to 
fourteen hundred dollars. Entrance money, eight 
dollars. Monthly contribution, thirty-seven and a half 
cents. Allowance to sick members, from three to 
four dollars per week ; to members on decease of 
their wives, twenty-five dollars; and to members 
wives, on decease of their husbands, fifty dollars.^ 
Number of members one hundred and ten. 

President — John Bierebaum. 

3. Caledoji'ian Society, 

Instituted 1790. All the members must be Scotch- 
men, or their offspring; at least thirty years of age, 
and not above iorty years. Original subscription, 
two dollars; those that entered alter January 1791, 
paid half a dollar additional for every year above 
thirty. Quarterly subscription, half a dollar ; six 
months arrearages exclude a member from the so- 
ciety. Stated meetings are in January, April, July 
and October. Three visitors attend to the sick, who 
are allowed two dollars and a half, weekly, during 
an illness. Alter an illness o'> twenty-six weeks, the 
allowance is reduced to one dollar per week. Dis- 
tant members are also relieved. 

President — Thomas Dobson. 

Treasurer — A. Campbell. 



SCOTS THISTLE SOCIETY. 285 



4. Scot's Thistle Society. 

lliis institution combines in its operations all the 
advantages of a mutual benefit, and of a charitable 
society. 

It was instituted in November 1796, and incorpo- 
rated in March 1799. It is composed of natives of 
Scotland, their sons, and the sons of members. The 
management of its affairs is vested in a president, 
vice president, ti-easurer, six counsellors and a se- 
cretary, who are elected annually on the 30th oi 
November, St. Andrew's day. The original fund of 
the society was created, and is supported, by the en- 
trance money paid by new members, the quarterly 
contributions of the members, and by donations. 
Entrance money of the members, if under forty 
years of age, two dollars ; and one dollar for every 
year older till 45; one dollar is paid at each quarterly 
meeting. If a member is sick, or otherwise disabled 
from following his usual employment, he is visited 
by two members of the council, who carry to him 
three dollars weekly, during the continuance of his 
indisposition. He is furnished with medicines and 
medical advice, provided he is not in circumstances 
to pay for them. The benefit of medical assistance 
is likewise extended to all sickness which may occur 
in a member's family, and under particular circum- 
stances, to any indigent sick person who may be re- 
commended to the society as deserving of charity. 

Wiien a member dies, twenty dollars are allowed to 
defray his funeral expenses, and all the members 
attend the funeral, with black crape round the left 
arm. If a member's wife die, twelve dollars are al- 
lowed ; on the death of a member's widow, ten dol- 
lars are paid lor funeral expenses. 



286 SCOTS THISTLE SOCIETY. 

Besides the above, the society have lately set on 
foot a separate fund for the benefit of the widows of 
members during their widowhood. This was begun 
in 1808, and only went partially into operation abovit 
six months ago ; but as the capital accumulates, the 
benefit to widows will be augmented in proportion. 
These benefits are confirmed to every member and 
their widows, " not as a charity, but a just right." 

In addition to the preceding benefits, this society 
applies, in charitable contributions, the proceeds of a 
principal stock, which is solely appropriated for the 
reliei and assistance of emigrants from Scotland, who 
may be in indigent circumstances, their children, 
widows, &c. The views of the society in their dis- 
tribution of this charity are, to relieve the present 
necessities of the applicants, and if possible, by their 
advice and assistance, to put them in a way to sup- 
port themselves. 

The various funds of the society are at present in 
a very flourishing condition, and the affairs of the 
society are so conducted as to give general satisfac- 
tion. The present number of members exceeds 
eighty. 

The income for the last year, from November 30, 
1809, to November 30th, 1810, arising out of en- 
trance money paid by new members ; quarterly dues, 
interest o money lent, &c. g570 37 1-2 

Expenditure ot last year, viz. weekly allowance 
to sick members, do. to widows, charities, and con- 
tingent expenses, &c. 18418 50 

Stated meetings of the society are held on the 
first Mondays of March, June, September and the 
30th November. 

President— James M'Alpin. 

Vice President — John Lang. 

Treasurer — William Wilson, 

Secretary — William Patton. 



S*. PATRICK'S, FRENCH AND BIBLE SOCIETIES. 287* 



4. St, Patrick^s Benevolent Society, 

Incorporated 1804. Members are Irishmen, or 
their sons^ and must be citizens, and between tweniy- 
one and forty years ot age. Initiation tee, five dollars. 
Monthly payments, twenty-five cents. Three dollars, 
weekly allowance to sick members. Twenty dollars 
are allowed to defray the funeral of a deceased mem- 
ber. Meet on the 17th of each month, at D. M'Ka- 
rah. r's. Second street below Lombard, 

President — Wm. Duane. 

6. Societe de Bienfaisance. 

Instituted 1804. Incorporated 1805, for the relief 
of Frenchmen in distress. The calamities of war 
have given very frequent opportunities to the mem- 
bers of this most excellent institution, to exercise 
their humanity. 

President — Mr. Laval. 

Bible Society. 

In December, 1808, a society was formed for the 
distribution Oi the Bible among the poor, and a ge- 
neral subscription made to effect the design Dona- 
tions have also been received from the Bible Society, 
in London, and ;rom pious individuals and religious 
societies in the United States. Three reports have 
been published of the proceedings of the society, by 
which it appears that, smce it was organized, five 
thousand lour hundred and twenty -two Bibles and 
New Testaments have been distributed by this so- 
ciety. Every part o; the United States has received 
copies. Even Bibles in the German, Welsh and 
Gaelic languages have been distributed, to set- 



28ii MASON'S SOCIETY. 

tlements where those languages solely are spoken. 
In this glorious zeal, Philadelphia, as usual, knows no 
distinction of sect : all denominations of christians 
have aided the design by their subscriptions, and by 
dividing the labour oi the society among them. 
Rt. Rev. William White, D. D. President. 

Society of Masons. 

The early records of masonry in Philadelphia 
have been lost ; but it is known that a society of the 
" Pvloderns," was formed at an early date, and that 
it was composed ol" seveial of the most respectable 
and prominent characters of the day. The gazettes," 
the only authority existing on the subject, inform 
us of a Grand Lodge having been held so early as 
the year 1732, at the " Tun tavern,"=* the fashion- 
able hotel oi the time,, when W^illiam Allen, the 
recorder of the city, (afterwards chief justice) was 
chosen Grand Master: it appears that regular meet- 
ings were annually held for several years after- 
wards. 

In the year 1737, a melancholy event occurred^ 
which gave the brethren much uneasiness. A party 
of idle men, not belonging to the craft, with a view 
of enjoying the fright which they supposed they 
would excite, either volunteered their services, or 
acceded to the wishes of a young man, to initiate 
him into the mysteries of masonry, and accordingly 
instituted a variety of ridiculous operations, at night, 
in a cellar, to all which he submitted with fortitude, 
although they were painful and extremely trving to 
a young mind. Finding that their object was likely 
to be defeated, a bowl of burning spirit, into which 



* Water street, between Walnut and Chesnut-streets. 



SOCiETY OF MASON> 289 

he had been directed to look for some time, was 
thrown over him, and his clothes taking fire, he was 
so much burnt, that he died in a few days afterwards. 
This melancholy event, justly excited the puhlic 
indignation, and the chief promoter of the mischief, 
after a legal investigation, was ignominiously pu- 
nished by being burnt in the hand: but unfortunately 
the scene having been conducted under the impres- 
sion of a connection with masonry, a considerable 
prejudice, among those who were unacquainted with 
the principles oi the craft, was excited, and to such 
a degree did it extend, that the brethren deemed it 
necessary to come forward, and after stating the 
occurrence, in the newspapers, to " declare the ab- 
horrence of all true brethren, to this horrid practice; 
and that the persons concerned were not of their socie- 
ty ,nor of any society of Free and Accepted Masons."* 

On the 23d September, ir43, the right honourable 
lord John Ward, grand master of England, nominated 
Thomas Oxnard, esq. provincial grand master of all 
North America. 

On the 10th July, 1749, Thomas Oxnard, esq. ftp- 
pointed Benjamin Franklin, esq. provincial grand 
master of Pennsylvania, with authority to appoint 
the other grand officers, hold a grand lodge, issue 
warrants, &c. 

On the 5th September, 1749, the first grand lodge 
\\as held at " the Royal Standard," in Market 
street, under this warrant : grand master Franklin 
having appointed. 

Dr. Thomas Bond, deputy grand master. 

Joseph Shippen, senior grand warden. 

Philip Syng, junior grand warden. 

Wm. Plumsted, grand treasurer. 

Daniel Byles, grand secretary. 

* Signed, Thomas Ilopkinson, G. M. 
Wm. Plumsted, D. G. M. 
Joseph Shippen and H. Pratt, G.\V. 
Bb 



290 SOCIETY OF MASONS. 

At the same meeting a warrant was granted to 
James Pogreen* and others, to hold a lodge in Phila- 
delphia. The meetings were regularly held until 13th 
March, 1750, when William Allen, esquire, the re- 
corder of the city of Philadelphia, presented to the 
grand lodge a commission from the grand lodge of 
England, appointing him provincial grand master, 
which was recognized, and he appointed Benjamin 
Franklin, deputy grand master; and the other ofli- 
cers above mentioned, according to rank. 

From this time they proceeded in their business, 
granting new warrants in the cit)^, in various parts of 
the state and other places, until superceded by the 
jntroductionof various lodges of "• ancient York ma- 
sons," and the ultimate establishment of a grand lodge 
of that order. 

As far as the minutes of the modern grand lodge 
go, Dr. Franklin was never absent irom a meeting. 

A grand lodge was erected some years afterwards, 
in the alley leading from Second street to Dock 
street, by the bank of Pennsylvania, which remained 
until the year 1785; when the " Moderns," having 
greatly diminished, the two surviving trustees of the 
building, were authorised, by an act oi the legislature, 
to sell it, and to apply part of the proceeds thereof to 
a charitable purpose. They were given to the city, 
for the use of the poor. 

At what time the members of " Ancient York 
Masons," first held subordinate lodges, does not 
now appear ;| but in the year 1761, the late William 
Ball, oi Philadelphia, obtained from the grand lodge 
of that society in London, the charter or warrant 
for the grand lodge m Pennsylvania. It is No. 1, 



* Signed William, lord Byron, baron of Rochdale, in the 
county of Lancaster, G. M. 

I Owing' to the loss of the archives, during the revolutionary 
war. 



I 



SOCIETY OF MASON.S. :291 

in Pennsylvania, and No. 89, in England,* and rc- 
gistei'ed in the grand lodge, Loudon, vol. 3d, letter 
C. and bears date July 14, 1761. 

The fraternit}^ of the ancients, have since regu- 
larly held their grand communications, except while 
the British were in possession of Philadelphia, and 
to the end of last year, have constituted one hun- 
dred and thirty-one subordinate lodges, in several of 
the states, in the West Indies, in Florida, and 
twenty-one in Philadelphia. 

For several years past they have been anxious to 
erect a building suitable to the dignity of the craft, 
and to their thriving situation, but were not able 
until the year 1809 to accomplish their wishes. 
With the funds then in hand, and the help of addi- 
tional subscriptions, they commenced the undertak- 
ing; but their views enlarging as the work pro- 
ceeded, it became necessary to increase their lunds; 
they therefore proposed a loan of forty thousand 
dollars, at six per cent, redeemable on the first day 
of January 1825, on the security of the house and 
lot. This loan was filled in less than two hours, by 
eighty subscribers. A second loan for twenty thou- 
sand dollars, has also been filled. 

The Masonic Hall is in Chesnut, between Seventh 
and Eighth streets from Delav/are, and was conse- 
crated in due form, and with all possible splendor 
and solemnity on last St. John's day. Upwards of 
eight hundred brethren, many of them from other 



* It is sig-ned by Kelly, (Thomas Erskine, carl Kelly, ^is- 
ount Fenton, S;c.) G. Master. 
VVm.Osbom, 1). G. Master. 
\Vm. Dickey, S. G. Warden. 
J. Gibson, J. G. Warden. 
Law, Dermott, G. Secretary. 



292 PROVISION I'OR THE POOR, 

states, attended the procession on the octasioii. 
An impressive and eloquent oration, was delivered 
on the same day, before the society, by the grand 
master, James Milnor, esq.* in St. John's Church, 
Sassafras street. 

Officers James Milnor, R. W. Grand Master. 

P. L. B. Du Plessis, R. W. D. G. Master. 

Richard Tybout, R. W. Senior G. Wai-den. 

Joseph Burden, R. W. Junior G. Warden. 

George A. Baker, R. W. Grand Secretary. 

Samuel F. Bradford, R. W. Grand Treasurei:. 

Provision for the Poor. 

The present system for the management of the 
poor of the city and county of Philadelphia, was es- 
tablished by a law passed the 29th March, 1803. By 
this law, sixteen citizens are to be chosen on the third 
Monday in May, by the corporation of Philadelphia, 
six by the corporation of Southwark, and eight by 
the justices of the peace of the township of Northern 
Liberties, who are to be guardians of the poor of the 
city and districts. They must be " substantial 
house keepers," and the elections are to be viva 
voce: after the appointment of managers of the alms 
house from among them, the whole number of 
guardians remaining are to be divided equally by 
lot, so that one half of those for the city, district and 
township, shall be included in the said equal divi- 
sion, which otie half continue in office for six months; 
and on the third Monday of November, six others 
are chosen in the same way to supply the places of 
those who have gone out. Guardians must take an 



* For sale by Bradford and Inskcep : a full account of the 
procession is annexed. 



PROVISION FOR THE POOR. 293 

oath of office, under a penalty of sixty dollars. They 
are declared to be a body politic and corporate in 
law, by the name of the " Guardians of the Poor of 
the city of Philadelphia, the district of Southwark, 
and township of the Northern Liberties^": The 
guardians appoint eight of their number to. superin- 
tend the alms house and house of employment ; four 
from the city, and two from each district, who divide 
themselves by lot into two classes, one oi which go 
out every six months ; their places are supplied by a 
new election from the body of the guardians, so that 
four shall be appointed every six months. Vacancies 
are supplied by anew election by the guard;ans and 
managers. Besides the superintendence oi the alms 
house, and house of employment, the managers are 
empowered, with the approbation of four aldermen, 
and two justices of the county, to lay an assessment, 
not exceeding one hundred cents in the hundred 
dollars at any one time, nor more than three dollars 
per head on every freeman, not otherwise rated. The 
guardians may appoint a clerk ; and any two ot them 
may furnish reliet in cases of persons being taken so 
ill as to require immediate assistance, and cannot be 
removed to the alms house : but they must report 
their proceedings at the next meeting of the general 
board. The managers may put out poor children as 
apprentices, and also bind out by indenture, disorder- 
ly persons, who by their vices have fallen sick, and 
l)ecome chargeable to the city or districts. 

The managers have formed a set oi rules for their 
own government, and that of the house, of which 
the following is an abstract. 

The board of managers meet at the alms house 
every Monday afternoon. They divide themselves 
into various committees, viz. 

1. The visiting committee of two, who inspect the. 
wards twice a week, and render such advice and as- 
Bb 2 



294 PKO VISION FOR THE POOR; 

sistance in supporting the order of the house as may 
appear useful. 

2. A manufacturing committee of four, who meet 
once a week ; they order the purchase of raw mate- 
rials, fix the prices on all goods manufactured in the 
liouse, and inspect the accounts. 

3. A clothing committee of two, who serve in 
rotation one month j meet once a week, distribute 
clothes to the poor, and order or recommend new 
purchases, when necessary, to the board. 

4. A provision committee of three j they purchase 
provisions for the paupers. 

5. A fuel committee of three, who purchase fuel 
for the house, and report to the board all suclr pur- 
chases. 

A steward and matron are chosen by the mana- 
gers. The former has the general superintendence of 
the house, and the nurses. Sec. except that part for 
the women and children; and is particularly re- 
quired to attend at meal times to preserve order : 
he reports the ingress and regress of the paupers, or 
deaths and elopements, with all bills, &c. keeps an 
account of all the goods manufactured in the house. 
The matron has the entire superintendence and care 
o-f that part of the house appropriated to females and 
children ; and every Monday is to apply to the 
steward for as much raw materials as may be re- 
quisite for the employment of those under her care, 
in carding, spinning, knitting, and sewing. Every 
Saturday afternoon, she is required to deliver all the 
yarn and threadspun during the week, to the steward. 

All persons admitted, who are capable of working, 
are to be employed. 

Children are taught to read. Smoking and beg- 
ging are prohibited : no spirituous liquors are dis- 
tributed to any pauper, unless ordered by the physi- 
t'i^iiBj or the managers.* Th^ punishment for mis- 



PftOVISION FOR THE POOR. 2^ 

conduct of any kind, is the solitary cells. Various 
other rules and regulations are in force, but it is not 
conceived necessary to state them. They refer 
merely to the well ordering of the house. 

Three citizens are annually appointed by the 
mayor's court, and by the court of quarter sessions, 
of the county at their first session, in every year, to 
audit and settle the accounts of the treasurer, the 
board of guardians, and managers respectively; and 
to publish a true statement of all their receipts, 
whether in taxes, donations, legacies or otherwise, 
including a statement of the amount oi the taxes le- 
vied in each and every year, together v/ith the ex- 
penditures of the corporation, in two newspapers, 
lor three days. 

The alms house is on the east side of the square, 
bounded east by Tenth street ; southward, by Pine 
street ; westward, by Eleventh street ; northward, by 
Spruce street. It is built in the form of an L, one hun- 
dred and eighty feet by forty. It consists of two sto- 
ries, joined by a turret, thirty feet square, of four sto- 
ries. The house of employment is on the west side of 
Eleventh street, of the same figure and dimensions. 

In 1810, the average number of paupers supported 
and employed in the alms house, was five hundred and 
twenty-six men, and three hundred and eighty-five 
women, and three hundred and eighty-three children: 
but two hundred and twelve of the children were at 
nurse out of the house. Total supported, twelve hun- 
dred and ninet\'-four paupers. The sum expended for 
their support was §50,761, 87 being about g39, for 
each pauper for one year. The tax levied for the 
support of the poor in the city and county, and also 
in the alms house, in the year 1811 was §83,000. 
The whole number of poor pensioned in the city, or 
supported in the alms house is estimated at §2,500= 



296 LITERARY INSTITUTIONS. 

A variety of goods are made by the poor ; but in 
order to finish every article of clothing used in the 
house, some hands are hired ; about thirty looms for 
weaving cloth are in operation, and goods to the 
amount of from fifteen to twenty thousand dollars 
are annually made in the house. 

Literary Institutions. 

As early as the year 1689, a school was establish- 
ed by the Society of Friends in Philadelphia, for 
teaching the English and learned languages,* and 
George Keith, of polemic memory, a man of ta- 
lents, was invited from New Jersey to take charge 
of it ; but having given dissatisfaction to his em- 
ployers, after one year he was succeeded by the 
learned Thomas Makui, whose Latin description of 
the country will amuse the reader.f 

The society, as has been already mentioned, was 
incorporated by Wm. Penn. Its concerns are ma- 
naged by fifteen " overseers," who have now under 
their care, thirteen schools. The Greek and Latin 
languages, and other liberal branches of learning 
may be acquired in some departments of the insti- 
tution, whilst in others, the pupils can receive a 
plain education. 

University of Pennsylvania. 

In the year 1749, a subscription was set on foot, 
among a number of gentlemen of Philadelphia, for 
the purpose of establishing an academy and charita- 



" See p. 261. 

I See Proud's history of Pennsylvania. 



UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. .197 

^le school,* and was so liberally encouraged, that in 
the year 1750, it was opened under twenty-four 
trustees, for instruction in the Latin and English 
languages, and in mathematics. The institution was 
incorporated in 1753, by the proprietaries, and a 
donation in money and lands made to it, by them, 
to the amount of three thousand pounds. The Rev. 
Wm. Smith, was appointed principal, and the Rev. 
Francis Allison, master of the Latin school ; with 
Mr. Beveridge, and Mr. Grew as teachers. In the 
year 1755, upon the petition of the trustees, an addi- 
tional charter was obtained, to authorise the con- 
ferring degrees by the institution, under the title of 
*' the College, Academy and Charitable School of 
Philadelphia:" and in the same year, the first literary- 
honours were conferred upon six pupils.j 

In the year 1764, the foundation of the first me- 
dical school in America was laid, by a course of 
lectures upon anatomy, which was delivered by the 
late Dr. Wm. Shippen. His pupils amounted only 
to ten.:{: He was appointed professor of that branch, 
in the following year, by the trustees, and Dr. John 
Morgan,^ professor of the institutes of medicine. 



* The orig-hial and chief promoters of the plan, were Thomas 
Hopkinson, Tench Francis, Richard Peters, and Benjamin 
Franklin. The last acted for some time as the Secretary of the 
Board. The charitable school contained thirty girls, to be 
tansjht reading, writing and sewing; and sixty boys, who were 
taught reading, writing and arithmetic. 

f I'hese were the late Rev. Mr. Duche, Rev. Dr. Samuel 
Magaw, Rev. James Latta, Dr. Hugh Williamson, Francis Hop- 
kinson, esq. late Admiralty Judge, and Hall. 

t Last winter the anatomical class amounted to between three 
and four hundred pupils. 

§ Di-. Morgan delivered " a discourse upon the institution of 
medical schools in America," at a commencement in May 
1765, in which he pointed out the advantages to be derived 
from their estublishiucnt. 



298 UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Both those gentlemen had graduated at Edinburgh, 
and had previously agreed to attempt the establish- 
ment of a medical school on their return. In 1768, 
Dr. A. Kuhn, was appointed professor of botany; and 
in 1769, Dr. B. Rush, was appointed to the chemical 
chair ; Dr. T. Bond, at the same time, gave clinical 
lectures in the Pennsylvania hospital. 

The college continued to diffuse the benefits of 
learning, and was conducted with ability and zeal, 
under that name, until the year 1779, when the le- 
gislature of Pennsylvania gave it a new charter, 
erecting it into a University. It was placed under 
the direction of a new board of trustees ; a feAV of 
whom had been members of the old board, and the 
executive council authorised to bestow on it, so ma- 
ny of the confiscated estates as would produce an 
additional income of fifteen hundred pounds a year. 
The Rev. Dr. John F wing was appointed provost. 

The removal of the former provost, was consi- 
dered an act of high injustice, not only by himself, 
but by many of the best whigs of the day. They 
therefore frequently petitioned the legislature to re- 
store the charter to the college, but without success, 
owing to the supposed disaffection of the former 
provost to the independence of the United States. 
In the year 1789, however, when the passions of 
men had been somewhat cooled, another attempt 
was made and succeeded. By a law passed in that 
year, the university was continued, and the col- 
lege revived. Distinct professors in the arts and 
in medicine were appointed ; and thus two semina- 
ries were established. But it was not long before the 
two boards found that neither of them had funds 
adequate to the expenses of separate institutions, 
and they became convinced of the necessity of an 
union. Conferences being held, it was agreed that 
both boards should present the same petition to the 



UNIVERSITY OP PENNSYLVANIA. 2^9 

legislation, praying that, on certain conditions, they 
might be united. Accordingly in 1791, this was 
done, and thus was finally erected the seminary, 
now called the University of Pennsylvania, still 
composed of the same schools of which the old col- 
lege consisted, with the addition of the professor- 
ships of Natural History, Law, and the German 
language. The new board was composed of twenty- 
four members, taken equally from the old boards: and 
the governor of the state was to be president. They 
made choice of Dr. Ewing as provost, who continued 
in that station until his death in 1803. He was suc- 
ceeded by the Rev. Dr. M'Dowell, from Maryland, 
but who resigned in 1809. In 1811, the Rev. Dr. 
Andrews, was chosen provost, and Mr. Robert 
Pattei-son, vice provost. 

The present professors are, 

Rev. Dr. John Andrews, Provost, and Professor 
of Moral Philosophy and Logic. 

Robert Patterson, Vice Provost, and Professor of 
Mathematics and Natural Philosophy. 

Rev. Dr. Wm. Rogers, Professor of English and 
Belles Lettres. 

James Thomson, Professor of Languages. 

MEDICAL SCHOOL. 

Caspar Wistar, jun. M. D. Professor of Anatomy. 

Benjamin Rush, M. D. Professor of the Institutes 
and Practice of Physic, and of Clinical Practice. 

Philip Syng Physick, M. D. Professor of Surgery. 

John Syng Dorsey, M. D. Adjunct Professor of 
Surgery. 

Dr. Benjamin Smith Barton, Professor of Materia 
Medica, Botany and Natural History. 

T. C. James, M. D. Professor of Midwifery. 

John Redman Coxe, M. D. Professer of Chemis- 
try. 



390 AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETV, 



American Philosophical Society^ 

Was formed in the year 1769, by the union of 
two other literary societies that had previously sub- 
sisted in Philadelphia. One of these, stiled the 
*' American Philosophical Society," was instituted in 
1743; and at the time of the union, consisted of one 
hundred and twenty-seven members : the other 
stiled the " American Society for promoting useful 
knowledge," was instituted in 1766, and at the union, 
consisted of seventy-eight fellows, and sixty-nine 
corresponding members. 

The society was incorporated by an act of the 
legislature of Pennsylvania, passed in 1 780. 

In the year 1786, Mr. John Hyacinth de Magel- 
lan, of London, presented to the society, a donation 
of two hundred guineas, to the end that the interest 
thereof should be annually disposed of in premiums, 
to be adjudged by the society, to the author of the 
best discovery, or most useful invention relating to 
navigation, astronomy, or natural philosophy, mere 
natural history only excepted: the premium to con- 
sist of an oval plate of solid standard gold, of the 
value of ten guineas, with suitable devices engraved 
thereon. 

Persons of all nations, are admitted as candidates 
for this premium. 

The Magellanic fund, having been so managed as 
to produce an annual surplus, the society, with a 
view to promote the liberal intentions of the donor, 
have determined that the above surplus fund shall 
be employed, in the first instance, according to the 
strict conditions of the donation, if a sufficient num- 
ber of deserving candidates shall have applied for 
the same; otherwise that such surplus, or so much 
thereof as cannot be applied as above, be awarded by 



AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY. 301 

the society to the authors of useful inventions or 
improvements, on any subjects within the general 
view of the Magellanic donation, or to the authors 
of such communications as may lead to such inven- 
tions or improvements, and which communications 
may be deemed worthy of the premium. The pre- 
mium to consist of a gold medal of the value of not 
less than twenty, nor more than forty-five dollars, or 
the same sum in money, at the option of the candi- 
date ; accompanied with a suitable diploma. 

Several medals of the Magellanic fund, and pre- 
miums of the surplus fund, hare been awarded by 
the society. 

Five volumes In 4to, of transactions, and the first 
part of a sixth vol., have been published by the so- 
ciety. Maternils for another volume are preparing: 
the society having judiciously resolved to adopt the 
example of the Royal Society of London, to publish a 
volume, large or small, annually. 

Aided by the liberal donations of a number of 
friends of science, both in America and Europe, and 
by the legislature of Pennsylvania, the society were 
enabled to erect, about the year 1785, on the N. E. 
part of the state h juse square, a commodious build- 
ing, where they held their meetings. 

The society meet on the first and third Fridays of 
every month, from October to May, both inclusive, 
at six in the evening : and on the third Friday in 
each of the other lour months, at 7 o'clock. 

On other Friday evenings, the members meet for 
the purpose of literary conversation, and of perusing 
the new foreign journals which are imported in single 
numbers. On those evenings members may introduce 
any <riend or stranger. 

The library of the society is extensive, and an- 
nually increasing. 

e c 



302 MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

The society have likewise an extensive collection 
of minerals from all quarters of the world, scientifi- 
cally arranged. 

President — ^Thomas Jefferson. 

Medical Society, 

A society of students, who met for mutual im- 
provement, was formed in the year 1771. About the 
year 1790, another was formed, which after a short 
time was united with that previously existing ; the 
new association assumed the name of the " Phila- 
delphia Medical Society." Members are either ho- 
norary, or junior. The latter are required to read a 
paper before the society, and to be examined on the 
same previously to being balloted for. The presi- 
dent and officers are generally changed every year. 
The society meets only during the winter season. 

College of Physicians. 

This association was formed in the year 1787, and 
incorpoi-ated in the year 1789, by the legislature of 
Pennsylvania. 

The objects of the college, as stated in their con- 
stitution, are " to advance the science of medicine, 
and thereby to lessen human misery, by investigating 
the diseases and remedies which are peculiar to this 
country ; by observing the effects of different sea- 
sons, climates and situations upon the human body ; 
by recording the changes which are produced in dis- 
eases, by the progress of agriculture, arts, population 
and manners, by searching for medicines in the 
American woods, waters, and in the bowels ol the 
earth; by enlarging the avenues to knowledge from 
the discoveries and publications of foreign countries, 
and by cultivating order and uniformity in the prac- 
tice of physic." 



LINNEAN SOCIETY. 3Q3 

In the year 1793, the college published the first 
part of the first volume of transactions, in 8vo, and 
have also published a pamphlet in favour of the im- 
portation from the West Indies, of the contagion of 
the fever, which prevailed in 1793, and since that 
year, in Philadelphia. 

Medical Lyceum^ 

Was formed in the year 1804. It was originally 
intended that the senior members in this society, 
should have the entire management of its affairs ; 
and that the junior members should merely attend 
the debates. But, after a year or two, the plan was 
so far altered that all the members have the right of 
suffrage in the concerns of the society. The society 
hold their session during the course of the medical 
lectures. At each meeting a paper is read, by the 
members, in rotation, which is submitted to discus- 
sion. 

The officers are annually elected. 

Linnean Society, 

A number of young gentlemen, desirous to pro- 
mote a knowledge of the vegetable kingdom ; and 
assured of the advantages to be derived from it, in a 
philosophical, medical and agricultural point of view, 
met together and established a society, on the 6th 
of June, 1806, under the title of the " American 
Botanical Society, held at Philadelphia." Members 
were aiterwards admitted from various parts ox the 
union, from whom the society expected to receive 
specimens or drawings of plants, and communica- 
tions respecting their character, and real or reputed 
medical or other properties. Hitherto the attention 
©f the society had been confined to a single object. 



304 LINNEAN SOCIETY. 

In natural history. On the 4th of March 1807, itwS^ 
resolved that the views of the society he extended 
to natural historj'^, generally, and that it be stiled 
in future, the Philadelphia Linnean Society. The 
Constitution was altered, as circumstances rendered 
necessary, and Dr. Barton, elected president, who 
delivered the first anniversary oration on the 10th of 
Ju.ne. The business of the society is conducted by a 
president, vice president, corresponding and record- 
ing secretaries, treasurer and two curators. A stand- 
ing committee, consisting of sixteen members, and 
termed the grand committee, is annually elected, 
which is subdivided into three committees, to one 
of which are submitted all questions, essays, speci- 
mens, &c. relating to mineralogy ; to the second, 
those relating to botany; and to the third, those ap- 
pertaining to zoology. When any specimen is pre- 
sented, or information is requested upon any sub- 
ject in natural histoiy, it is submitted by the 
chairman of the grand committee to the proper de- 
partment, who make the necessary examination, and 
report the result to the chairman. He presents it, at 
the next meeting, to the society, when the informa- 
tion is directed to be communicated to the person 
requesting it. The society has lately desired the ci- 
tizens of the United States to forward specimens of 
plants and minerals, with such information respect- 
ing their application to useful purposes as they may 
possess. They will be examined, gratis, by the proper 
department; and it is hoped that, by means of this 
central deposit, much useful knowledge will be ac- 
quired respecting the natural history of our country, 
and many substances found, which from ignqrance 
of their existence here, have hitherto lain dormant 
in the earth, but which will now become extensive- 
ly valuable in the arts and manufactures. The fol- 
lowing extract from their address, will discover at. 
««)nce the laudable objects of the society. 



PHILADELPHIA LIBRARY. 305 

" To assist in obtaining a full knowledge of the 
medicinal and dying drugs indigenous to our soil ; 
to expedite the discovery of useiul metals; to aid 
the manu actures of their country, as far as thev are 
connected therewith ; and to remove the inconve- 
niences and disadvantages of individuals, not pos- 
sessing an acquaintance with natural knowledge, the 
Linnean Society, of Philadelphia, has directed the 
undersigned committee to give this public notice, 
that any plants, ores or any mineral substance what- 
ever, which shall be forwarded to any member of 
the committee, shall be examined by the botanical 
and mineralogical departments of the society. The 
result of the examination shall be communicated, as 
soon as completed, to the person transmitting such 
specimens, together with such other inlormation re- 
lative to its nature and uses which the society can 
impart. 

Samuel Jackson, M. D. James Cutbush, Samuel 
Benezet, M. D. Committee. 

Libraries. — 1. Philadelphia Library. 

" The foundation of the present library was laid 
in the year 1731, a period when Philadelphia af- 
forded little assistance to the inquiries of the studious. 
A number of gendemen having raised the sum of 
one hundred pounds, by subscription, a small library 
was formed upon principles the best calculated to 
disseminate knowledge : the books were noi, as in 
many of the public libraries of Europe, confined to 
the apartments, but the subscribers were allowed to 
carry them home for a reasonable space o'. t.me. 

The plan soon became popular ; accessions to the 
number of members took place, and the stock of 
books was annually increased by purchases at the 
e c 2 



3Q6 riilLADELPHIA LIBRARY. 

company's expense, and liberal donations from per- 
sons both at home and abroad. 

The instrument of association, signed by thirty- 
eight members, was dated July 1, 1731. The first 
importation of books from London, amounting to 
forty-five pounds, fifteen shillings, sterling, arrived in 
October 1 732. The library was first opened in a room, 
in Jones's alley, now called Pewter-platter alley, lead- 
ing from Second street to Front street, above High 
street. In 1773, it was transferred to the carpentei-'s 
hall, and in October, 1 790, it was placed in the pre- 
sent building. 

The proprietaries of Pennsylvania encouraged the 
plan, by making several valuable donations, and 
granting a charter of incorporation in the year 1742. 

A spirit of literary improvement made its way 
among all classes of people, and the philanthrophy of 
the great and amiable character* who suggested the 
plan, was gratified by traciiig the books as well into 
the hands of the opulent, with whom literature is 
Sometimes no more than one of the ornaments of 
civil life, as among those to whom it renders a more 
substantial benefit. Letters, while they employ the 
leisure of the artist, reconcile hmi to his labour ; by 
removing grosser relaxations, they promote his 
health, while they enlarge his mind ; and prolong his 
life, while they teach him to enjov it. 

The respectable and intelligent characteb- 

OF THE latter CLASS OF PEOPLE IN PHILADELPHIA, 
AND ITS ENVIRONS, CANNOT BE REFERRED TO A 
MORE PROBABLE CAUSE, THAN THE HABIT OF 
READING PROMOTED BY THIS INSTITUTION. 

The great utility and success of this measure, 
occasioned the formation of other libraries upon si- 



%. Franklim 



PHILADELPfflA LIBRARY. 3(i? 

milar principles ; but as it appeared more conducive 
to the interests oi literature, to be possessed of one 
large, than of several smaller collections of books, 
coalitions gradually took place among them, till the 
Amicable, the Association, and the Union Compa- 
nies were blended with " the Library Company of 
Philadelphia," the title conferred by the charter. 

Since this event, which took place in the year 
1769, the members and the property of the company 
have continued to increase ; the former being now 
between five and six hundred in number. The num- 
ber of volumes, at present, amounts to twenty thou- 
sand and seventy-six; the selection of Avhich, has in 
general been calculated to promote the more im- 
portant interests of society. The stock of books is 
continually increased by occasional donations, an- 
nual importations, and purchases of every Ameri- 
can production of merit. 

The library received, a few years since, a consi- 
derable accession of very valuable and costly books, 
to the number of two thousand five hundred vo- 
lumes, by the bequest of the late Rev. Mr. Preston, 
rector of Chevening, in Kent, England. 

Some valuable machines, an apparatus for the 
purposes of natural philosophy, &c. and a few curi- 
ous artificial and natural productions, also belong to 
the company, and are deposited in their apartments: 
the librarian attends to show them on Saturday 
mornings, from ten to twelve o'clock : and the di- 
rectors, on proper occasions, permit the instruments 
to be made use of. 

The shares, since August, 1793^ have been fixed at 
forty dollars: the annual payment from each mem- 
ber is two dollars. 

A house and lot of ground, which belonged to the 
Union Company; two lots of ground (one the ge- 
nerous donation of the late Thomas Penn,) and se? 
veral ground rents, constitute the real estate. 



304 LOGANIAN LIBRARY. 

The members hold the property as tenants in 
common, and dispose of their shares by will or deed : 
but the assent of the directors, as well in such cases 
as in case of an original purchase, is previously ne- 
cessary ; a restriction early adopted, in order, as 
much as possible, to prevent improper persons from 
having access to a collection of a nature so liable to 
injury. 

The directors and a treasurer are annually elected 
on the first of May, by the members ; the directors 
appoint a secretary and librarian :" the latter has a 
salary. The board meet monthly.* 

The library is opened only in the afternoon, from 
two o'clock till sunset; but it is hoped and expected 
that it will be shortly kept open all day. 

2. Logaman Library ^ 

"Was instituted by the late James Logan, a gen- 
tleman of considerable literature, who in the course 
of a long life had collected a number of the most rare 
and curious books in almost all the ancient languag- 
es. He built a house for their reception, and by deed 
executed in his life time, vested the house and lot, 
together with the books and some yearly rents for 
supporting a librarian, and occasionally increasing 
the catalogue, in trustees for the use of the public 
for ever ; under certain rules and regulations con- 
tained in these instruments. Sometime afterwards 
he cancelled this deed, and prepared another, which 
he did not live to execute ; this unfinished instru- 
ment varied the regulations in some respects, and 
the funds for the purpose of the institution, but the 
uses were the same as in the first. After his death. 



Preface to Catalogue of Library. 



tiOGANIAN LIBRARY. 309 

his children and residuary legatees, executed a deed 
conformable to that which had been prepared by him, 
vesting in the same trustees the whole estate intended 
by the founder, and the books were removed to a 
building prepared for them, arranged in order, and 
a catalogue printed. 

By the constitution, William Logan (the founder's 
eldest son) was the first librarian, and the office was 
made hereditary in his family, with power to execute 
it by a deputy. The funds appointed for a librarian, 
&c. were originally small, but issued from a very 
improving estate ; they were so reserved as to in- 
crease at stated periods, so as to afford a very hand- 
some income. Till one of those periods arrived they 
were not sufficient for the regular support of a libra- 
rian, wherefore he attended a considerable time to 
the duty in person. To this institution William Logan, 
by his will, devised a very handsome library, col- 
lected partly by himself, and partly by his uncle, the 
late Dr. WiUiam Logan, of Bristol, in England, 
amounting to about one thousand volumes. After his 
death, which happened in 1776, the library was shut 
for several years, owing to the death or absence of the 
trustees. In 1791, James Logan, the last surviving 
trustee named in the grant, having had several pre- 
vious consultations with Dr. Franklin, and with a 
number of his fellow citizens, on the subject, pre- 
sented a memorial to the legislature, wherein he 
stated the situation of the institution, and prayed for 
their aid to put it in a way of answering the end in- 
tended by his father, the founder. Whereupon, an act 
was passed, annexing the Loganian library to that of 
the Library Company of Philadelphia, and constitu- 
ting the directors and their successors, for the time 
being, together with James Logan, or his eldest male 
heir and two trustees, whom he or his heir shall 
appoint, trustees of the said Loganian library. It is, 



310 FRIENDS' LIBRARY. 

however, provided, that the said books and other 
property belonging to this institution, together with 
such other property as may hereaiter be acquired, 
shall be forever kept separate from the books be- 
longing to the Library Company of Philadelphia ; 
and that the said library shall be known by the name 
of the Loganian Library, agreeably to the intention 
of the donor. The house built by James Logan, has 
been sold, and a large and commodious room built 
adjoining the Philadelphia Library, for the purpose 
t)f keeping the books of the Loganian Library, which 
was opened for the benefit of the citizens, in May 
1794. It contains 3,944 volumes. 

3. Friends' Lihrarij. 

The religious society of Friends, in Philadelphia, 
have a library of about six hundred volumes, princi- 
pally on theological subjects, by authors of various 
denominations of professing christians. It is under 
the care of a librarian, who gives his attendance on 
the afternoon of every seventh day (Saturday) for 
the delivery and receipt of books, free of expense, to 
any respectable applicant who shall subscribe to the 
rules. 

A convenient room in the meeting house on Mul- 
berry and Fourth streets, is appropriated as a repo- 
sitory for the books. This collection was originally 
commenced by the pious Thomas Chalkley, and after 
his death, considerable additions were made to it by 
donations, and bequests of the late Anthony Bene- 
zett, and John Pemberton. 

The Circulating Libraries of Shallus, in Third 
near Chesnut street, and of Philips, in Third, oppo- 
site the mansion house hotel, contain large colle(^- 
tions of miscellaneous books. 



MUSEUM. 311 



Museum. 



This extensive collection was commenced in the 
year 1784, by Mr. Charles Willson Peale, by pro- 
fession a portrait painter. It was originally con- 
tained in a frame building annexed to his dwelling 
house, and afterwards removed to the hall of the 
Philosophical Society. In 1802, the legislature of 
Pennsylvania, generously granted, for the use of the 
Museum, the upper apartments of the state house, 
where the whole collection is now neatly arranged. 

A general outline of the arrangement, and a no- 
tice of the most interesting subjects, are all that c^n 
be expected in a work like the present. 
QUADRUPED ROOM. 

This room contains upwards of two hundred 
quadrupeds, mounted in their natural attitudes : the 
larger kinds, with their names in neat frames, are 
placed on pedestals, behind wire netting : the smaller 
quadrupeds are in glass cases. Numerical catalogues 
in frames over each case, state the genera to which 
they belong, and their specific names, in Latin, 
English and French. The Linnean classification is 
generally adopted throughout the animal department. 

Among the most remarkable of the quadrupeds, 
are the bison, of North America, improperly called 
buffaloe ; the broad tail sheep of Africa; the big 
horned sheep, and the pronged horned antelope, both 
brought by captain Lewis from the rocky mountain. 
American elks, cougar, usually called panther; jaguar, 
the untameable hyena, and fierce jackail ; the lama 
or camel of South America; American buck, Ame- 
rican wolf and foxes ; the long clawed grisly bear 
from the Missouri, black bear ; twenty-one species of 
Simiaor the monkey tribe; two varieties of the wild 
cat, long and short tailed; Cayenne tyger cat, two 



312 MUSEUar. 

Otters, American and English beaver ; hairless dog, 
long tailed or scaly manis, jubata or great ant eater, 
kangarou of New Holland, and American opossum 
displaying its false pouch ; duck billed platypus 
from New Holland ; badger ; two armadillos j the 
beautiful and affectionate ring tailed maucauco ; 
picary, bradj'-pus or slothj crested porcupine from 
New Holland, some of whose quills measure eigh- 
teen inches, and American porcupine. There are also 
the ourang outang ; the elephant seal, twelve feet 
six inches long ; leopard and beaver seals. Mada- 
gascar bats, measuring four feet from tip to tip, and 
the hooded bat. 

LONG ROOM. 

All the birds are in glass cases, the insides of 
which are properly painted. These cases rising 
twelve feet from the floor, extend the whole length 
of the room, which is one hundred feet long, dis- 
playing an elegant collection. 

The first order, rapacious birds, begins in the 
upper row, at the east end of the room, and extends 
nearly to the centre : each succeeding order begin- 
ning eastward, and extending to the west. In 
frames over each case, the genus is first noted, their 
species, and names in Latin, English and French, 
referring to the numbers which are attached to each 
species. 

There are in this collection, (including many non- 
descripts) nearly all the birds of the United States, 
and a considerable number from South America, and 
other parts of the world. The number exceeds one 
thousand. The hooping crane, from the capes of 
Delaware, the jabiru and crowned heron from 
South America, the ostrich, the bird of Paradise: 
Scarlet ibis, and spoon bill, from the coast of Geor- 
gia; the pelican and long necked flamingo will par- 
dcularly attract the attention. The sportsman will 



M;aSEUM. 313 

here too, see ail the birds of game, both of hind and 
water; among others, the grouse, and our bird, im- 
properly called pheasant; the beautiful English pheas- 
ant, and an intei*esting collection of snipes, wood- 
cocks and plovers. 

On projecting cases, between the windows, is a 
classification of four thousand insects, in frames. 
Those species which are too small to be examined 
with the naked eye, are placed in microscopic 
wheels : there are also seven cases with minerals, 
and fossils, arranged according to Kirwan, from va- 
rious parts of the United States, and other parts of 
the world. Among the clays are some American 
specimens, equal to those of which the finest porce- 
lain is made, in China or France. At the east end 
are several medals, some struck by congress, and 
some by order of Joseph Sansom, esq. commemora- 
ting events of the American revolution. There are 
also two edible birds-nests, fi-om the East Indies. 

Over the birds, in neat gilt frames, are two rows 
of portraits, one hundred and fifteen in number, of 
distinguished personages, painted from life, by C. 
W. Peale and his sou Rembrandt. This collection 
was begun in 1779, and contains manyol the heroes 
and sages of the revolution, who contributed, by their 
swords, their pen, or their counsel, to the attainment 
of the liberty we now ej^joy. There is also a collec- 
tion of portraits of distinguished French literary 
characters, painted by Rembrandt Peale. 
BACK ROOM. 

This contains the skeleton of the mammoth, which 
was dug up by Mr. Peale in 1801, out of a marie 
pit in Ulster county. New York : various Indian 
figures in their native war dresses : other Indian 
dj-esses, and an interesting collection of their orna- 
ments, spears, war clubs, stone hatchets, cups, pipes, 
and utensils: idols from the Sandwich islands; the 
Del 



314 ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS. 

sleigh in which colonel Pike travelled six hundred 
miles, from the source of the Mississippi, drawn by- 
two dogs ; the shoe and stocking of the Irish giant 
O' Brian : various curious specimens of clothing 
made from the barks of trees, by the natives of the 
South Sea islands, and from the intestines of the 
whale by the Indians of the N. W. Coast of Ameri- 
ca. Ancient English bow gun ; bamboola, an in- 
strument of music from Africa. Chinese compass 
and dial : various mammoth teeth of both species, 
found in different parts of the United States ; a live 
rattlesnake, and numerous smaller articles. 

There is also a figure and striking likeness in wax, 
of the late captain Lewis, as he was dressed by a 
Shoshone chief, in ermine skins, near the source of 
the Missouri. 

THE MARINE ROOM 

Is in the third story, and contains the chama, a 
shell, three feet long and 185 lbs. weight: a blue, 
and hammer headed shark: sword fish, saw fish : 
alligator fish, and paddle fish, from the western riv- 
ers of the United States : Miami salmon and pike ; 
dolphin ; large sun fish from the capes of Delaware ; 
frog fish, with rows of teeth in the throat ; alligators 
from the southern states ; a great collection of tor- 
toises, among others the gouffer of Georgia. Nume- 
rous snakes ; guana, N. Hoiland lizard ; skin of a 
snake twenty-six feet long ; a neat collection of shells, 
corals and madrepores ; the lizard of Georgia, 
some anatomical preparations, and numerous arti- 
cles preserved in spirits. 

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 

Was founded in the year 1805, by the voluntaiy 
association and contributions of a number of gentle- 
men of the city of Philadelphia. It was soon alter 



ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS. 315 

incorporated by the legislature. The object of this 
institution is to improve and refine the public taste 
in works of art, and to cultivate and encourage our 
native genius, by providing elegant and approved 
specimens of the arts for imitation, and schools for 
instruction. An appropriate building was erected in 
Chesnut street, between Eleventh and Twelfth 
streets, and a large building has lately been added 
to that first erected, for the exhibition of paintings, 
and the accommodation of the necessary schools, 
drawing rooms, Sec. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUILDING. 
" The character of the exterior architecture is mo- 
dern Ionic. The front elevation consists of a marble 
basement, four feet high, with a large flight of steps, 
to a recessed porch eighteen feet front on the front 
line, and ten feet. deep: the remainder of the eleva- 
tion consists of a high principal story, and an attic 
with cornice, parapet, freize, and neck moulding. 
The interior consists of a principal room, two com- 
mittee rooms, three chambers, and complete cellars 
under the whole. The principal room is forty-six 
feet diameter, and eighteen feet high, to the spring- 
ing of the ceiling, which is a dome, having the sole 
light from the centre ; the ceiling is plain, except a 
radii of lights in stucco, around the opening, and 
semi-circular architraves, with reversed mouldings 
at the springing. The sides consist of eight tall pe- 
destals, alternating with an equal number of recesses, 
which open to stairways, or intended additional 
rooms : these recesses also consist of a principal and 
attic pannels or openings : over these are arches, 
whose saffits obtrude into the dome, the effect of 
which is novel."* 



' Port Folio, June, 1809, 



'U6 ..SOCIETY OF ARTISTS. 

In the hall of statuary, the academy now has a fine 
collection of casts and busts fronm the most celebrated 
works of antiquity, consisting of about twenty-five 
statues and a much greater number of busts. The 
painting gallery is adorned with the two celebrated 
jpictures ot West, " Lear in the Storm," and" Ophe- 
lia in her madness," the property of Robert Fulton, 
esq. besides many other valuable pictures of ancient 
.md modern masters. 

The first annual exhibition of the academy, in 
<;onjunction with the society of artists, was made in 
May last (1811) and consisted of above five hundred 
productions of the fine arts, displayed with great 
effect and taste ; the public encouragement of this 
first effort of this sort in this country, exceeded the 
most sanguine expectation. Two addresses have 
been made by the president, to thg society ; and in 
November last, (1810) the first annual discourse* 
was delivered by Mr. Hopkinson to a very brilliant 
and crowded audience j which proves the interest 
our citizens take in this infant institution. After the 
discourse the honours of the academy, &c. were 
conferred upon several artists. 

President — George Clymer. 

Directors — William Tilghman, P. F. Glentworth, 
William Meredith, Joseph Hopkinson, William 
Rush, Samuel F. Bradford, Zaccheus Collins, 
James Gibson, Charles J. Wister, William Poyntell, 
Reeve Lewis, Rembrandt Peale. 

Society of Artists. 

In the year 1810, " the Society of Artists of the 
United States," was formed : the immediate objects 
of which are stated to be " to teach the elementary 



For sale by Bradford and Inskeep. 



OLD COURT HOUSE. 31?" 

principles of the arts; to encourage emulation by a 
comparison and communication ot ideas : to correct 
and improve the public taste by stated exhibitions, 
and to raise a fund for the relief of such members 
as may be rendered incapable of following their res- 
pective professions; or in case of their death, to make 
some provision for their families. 

To carry these objects into effect, it is in the first 
instance, proposed to select proper persons to teach 
the first elements of the arts, and to establish a school 
for drawing, in all its various branches ; and an an- 
nual exhibition of the works of art,"* foreign and 
domestic. 

The President of the United States, at the request 
of the society, has become the patron of the institu- 
tion. 

Not long after its formation, a union was effected 
between the Society of Artists and the Academy, 
and in May last their first exhibition took place, as 
already stated, and continued for six weeks. 

On the 8th of May, Mr. Latrobe delivered the 
first annual address before the Society ol Artists. f 

Public Butldings — Old Court House ^ in Second street. 

This plain, ancient structure deserves notice on 
many accounts. It was erected in the year 1709, in 
the inlancy of the capital, when within a square of 
it, the stately tenants of the forest still remained^ 
In this building, Hamilton, Growden, Ross, Gal- 
loAvay, Chew, Dickinson and Wiilson, commenced 
their career, as lawyers; and Kinsey and Allen dis- 
pensed justice from the bench. The celebrated George 
Whitfield too, delivered his eloquent discourses 



* ConstlUition of the Society of Artists,- 
% For sule by Bradford and Inskeep, 
D d 2- 



from the balcony to assembled thousands.* Thc- 
elections oi" governor and president ol the executive 
council, were proclaimed from the same place. 

For several years past, it has been occupied by the 
county and city commissioners, the clerks of the 
market, and at night, by the city watch. For hall' a 
century alter its erection, public vendues were held 
mider the arches of the house, and in no other place 
in the city. 

State House. 

Previously to the erection of the state house, the 
legislature of Pennsylvania, held their sessions in 
difterent private houses; the first of these was in 
Front street, above Mulberry street, on the bank 
side, and was recently pulled down. For many }^ ears 
they occupied the house now in the possession of 
Mr. John Dorsey, auctioneer, in Front street, below 
Walnut street. In the year 1729, the legislature re- 
solved to build a house for their particular accom- 
jnodation, and appointed Andrew Hamilton, John 
Kearslcy, and Thomas Lawrence, comniissioners to 
purchase the ground, to give the plan, and to contract 
■with the workmen. The whole expense was not 
quite six thousand pounds. It Avas finished in 1735, 
and though externally plain in its structure, has a 
venerable appearance. It was originally furnished 
with a steeple, which was taken down about the close 
of the revolutionary war. In this building the con- 
gress of the United States sat during the war, before 



* A gentleman, recently deceased, often mentioned that he 
once distinctly heard Whitfield from on board a shallop at 
Market street wharf, and that the space between -the Avharf 
and court house was filled with people. 



OLD COLLEGE. 31? 

the year 17*82, at which time the clamors of a few 
soldiers for their pay, alarmed and induced them to 
move to other places. The declaration oi indepen- 
dence was publicly read, ;rom the steps, July 4th, 
1776. In the same room,* that had been occupied 
by congress, the federal convention sat, in 1787. The 
house is now occupied by the supreme and district 
state courts below, and Peale's Museum above. 

Old College^ i?i Fourth street. 

This building stands sixty -six feet back from Fourth 
street, between High and M ■ . rry streets, and is 
one hundred and twenty e- ;. ong, and seventy ieet 
wide. The whole lot is o\ic h'.uidred and ninety-eight, 
by one hundred and h.t eet. The house was ori- 
ginally built in 1740, hy the party who lelt the first 
Presbyterian church to join the eloquent Whitfield, 
but it iippears, notwithstanding the zeal with which 
they attended his early preaching, they could not 
raise funds sufficient to pay the workmen. Thev 
accordingly sold it to the trustees of the college in 
1749, ior £777, 18, 11 3-4, upon condition that they 
shall set apart a place and room ior worship, and 
also support a free school ; giving the trustees 
power to appoint teachers of school, and to intro- 
duce such preachers as they may think proper, 
so that no particular sect be fixed therein as a 
settled congregation, and to permit the use of 
the room set t'part for public worship, to such 
regular ministers of the gospel, as shall sign 
certain articles of religion annexed to the deed j 
particularly reserving the right of' the use of the 
building to Whitfield, whenever he should desire to 
preach therein. This creed is contained in three folio 



The east room on the first fiocr 



320 UNITED STATES BANK. 

pages, sixteen inches long, and nine wide. It is merely 
a detail of strict Calvinism. The property, having 
been accepted, by the trustees, upon the above condi- 
tions, they have not deemed themselves authorised 
to sell the whole building ; but one half of it has 
been disposed of to the " Union Society of Metho- 
dists." They have also deemed themselves bound 
by the words of the conveyance, to permit the use 
of the room set apart for worship, to all itinerant 
ministers who apply for the same, and to such it has 
always been granted. It is also often occupied by 
the various city congregations, when their own 
places of worship are repairing, or when a colony is 
about leaving one of the established societies, and 
are desirous of erecting anew church. It is scarcely 
necessary to add, that in a city which prides itself in 
believing that religion is an affair between the Ma- 
ker and the made, a subscription to the creed is ner 
ver required. 

United States Bank. 

The building occupied by the bank of the United 
States, was commenced in 1795, and finished in 1798. 
It was the first public buildingever erected in Philadel- 
phia, with portico and pillars. It is a square structure, 
ninety-six feet in front, and seventy-two deep. The 
east front, on Third street, consists of six columns, 
the angle pairs being coupled. The front wall ex- 
tends beyond the portico, on each side, in two wings, 
and is ornamented with pilasters. The columns, 
which are of the Corinthian order, are of marble, and 
fluted ; the front of the building is also marble. The 
cornice and pediment are of wood work, highly en-, 
riched. The tympanum is decorated with the Ame- 
rican eagle. The front is said to be nearly a copy of 
the Dublin Exchange. The sides and rear walls are 



BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA. 321 

«f brick, and excepting the four external walls and 
the vaults, the entire structure is of wood. The roof 
is covered with copper. 

Bank of Pennsyhayiia* 

This noble edifice is composed entirely of 
marble from the quarries in Montgomery county. 
The front extends fifty-one feet, and the whole build- 
ing, including the superb porticos front and back, 
is one hundred and twenty-five ieet in depth. The 
design is taken from the temple of Minerva, at 
Athens. 

The principal front in Second street, is a portico, 
of six Ionic columns, three feet in diameter each, 
with an entablature and pediment. The front and 
back walls have no openings except the doors. The 
flanks are plain, without pilasters, divided into a 
centre mass, with two recessed wings. Each of these 
divisions has one large arched window, lighting the 
rooms of the president, cashier, and the banking 
room, and a pannel or window above. The west front 
has a portico, similar to that on the east end, under 
which is a large arch containing the west door, and 
two windows below, and three in the upper story. 
The entablature runs without interruption round the 
building. The centre mass of the building rises eight 
feet, in a plam Attic, above the entablature, and is co- 
vered with a marble roof, in two circular stages. Some 
of the blocks of marble, composing this roof, weigh 
5, and some seven and a half tons. A circular cupola of 
eight windows, and 15 feet in diameter, covered with 
a dome, is carried up above the centre opening, and 
assists in lighting the banking room. This room is 
circular, and forty-five feet in diameter. Four 
niches, nine feet wide, and seventeen feet six inches 
high, and four equal recessed arches, containing the 
two doors, and the windows are arranged alternately 



322 PHILADELPHIA BANK. 

round the walls. The walls are thirty-eight feet eight 
inches high. The ceiling is a brick pannelled dome, 
rising only twelve feet six inches, surrounded by a 
mai-ble dome, and covered by the cupola. The 
height from the floor of the hall, to the ceiling of 
the cupola, is sixty feet, eight inches. The base- 
ment story rises five feet above the pavement, and is 
vaulted throughout. To each portico the access is 
by ten steps, extending the entire length of the 
front. The stair cases are marble throughout. The 
whole of the interior, except the counters and desks, 
doors and floors, is incombustible. The bank is ju- 
diciously placed about thirty feet off" from the street; 
in front are two neat marble watch houses. The lot 
in the rear is laid out in a grass plot, surrounded by 
a gravel walk, and the borders filled with ornamental 
trees and shrubs. The wall in front and rear is about 
four feet high, mounted with an iron palisade. The 
first stone was laid in April, 1799, and the whole 
finished in 1801. 

The above is a very inadequate description of this 
truly noble structure, the exterior of which univer- 
sally strikes the beholder with an idea of chaste 
simplicity and grandeur, not seen in any building 
in the United States; and according to the declara- 
tion of all foreigners of taste, is not surpassed by 
any in Europe. The architect was Mr. Latrobe, 
now of Washington, who has in the most gratelul 
terms, acknowledged the assistance he derived from 
the refined taste, and judgment of Samuel M. Fox, 
the late president of the bank.* 

Philadelphia Bank^ 

Situate on the south west corner of Chesnut and 
Fourth streets, commands attention from the novelty 

* Oration before the S.ociety of Artists. 



PHILADELPHIA BANK. 323 

of its design, being the first correct specimen of the 
style, called, improperly, the Gothic, executed in the 
United States. 

This building stands insulated, and presents its 
principal front on Fourth street. The grounds at- 
tached are laid out in gravelled walks and shrub- 
bery, and terminated west by lodges for the 
watchmen, built after the same style of the main 
building. The whole enclosed by an iron palisade. 

The plan of the banking house is a square, sixty 
by forty-three feet. The walls are elevated on a 
stone basement to the height of twenty-six feet, ter- 
minated by battlements. At this elevation, the 
building contracts, in front, to thirty-two feet, and 
rising, forms a kind of attic or low story, fronted 
with four buttresses, two of which are crowned 
with marble fynials or pinnacles. 

The entrance into this building is from Fourth 
street by a flight of marble steps, through a vaulted 
porch into the banking room. This room occupies 
nearly the whole area of the plan, except what is 
necessarily taken up by the money vaults and stair 
case, and is handsomely divided into different com- 
partments suited to the several offices of the institu- 
tion, all lying open to the president and cashier's 
rooms. 

Every part of the building is vaulted from the 
cellar to the roof, and rendered fire proof. The 
banking room, which is twenty feet high, has its 
ceiling enriched with mouldings and tracery work ; 
ornaments of the " decorated style of building" of 
the 14th century. 

The archivaults of the president's and cashier's 
rooms, and of the doors leading to the money vaults 
and director's room, are terminated by the head of a 
dog (emblem of fidelity) in the act oi guarding a pile 
of dollars, upon which the head reclines. Four great 



334 COUNTY COURT HOUSE k CITY HALt. 

windows with pointed arches, filled with tracery 
work, light the banking room. 

From a door leading out of this room, you enter 
the stair case and ascend by a flight oi marlDle steps, 
to the director's apartment oi business. This is of a 
curious construction, being octangular in its form, 
from the centre of which rises a beautiful clouded 
marble column, carrying a vaulted ceiling, springing 
in every direction of the room. The general finish 
of this room varies a little from that below, partaking 
somewhat of the Anglo Norman style in the round pil- 
lars in the angles and the circular tracery, which, toge- 
ther with the painted arch particularize the character 
of this style. The ceiling is enriched with mouldings 
and decorated at their intersections with I'osets, and 
a head representing Philadelphia. Two large win- 
dows light this apartment, decorated as those below. 
West oi this, he the library and engraver's rooms. 

The cellar or basement story is appropriated alto- 
gether for fuel and lumber, except one apartment 
which is occupied by the printing office. The money 
and book vaults are very properly placed above the 
street level, both on account oi safety and ventilation. 
The Gothic style is preserved throughout the whole 
building. Had the original plan been pursued, of 
constructing this building of stone instead of brick, 
its exterior appearance would have been much more 
interesting, and more incharacter of the style adopted. 
As it stands, it is a handsome structure and highly 
ornamental to our city. 

County Court House and City Hall. 

The former is at the S. W. corner of Chesnut and 
Fifth streets, and the latter, at the S. E. corner of 
Chesnut and Sixth streets. They are plain structures. 
In the former, the house of representatives sat be- 



UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 32-? 

low, after the removal of the government from New 
York, and previously to its establishment at Wash- 
ington. The senate occupied the chamber, where the 
federal district court is now held. In the latter 
house, the mayor's office and mayor's court are held, 
on the first floor ; the city councils and city coni- 
missioners sit up stairs. 

Unhersitij of Pemisijhama^ 

Is in Ninth street, between High and Chesnut 
streets, and was originally built by the state of Penn- 
sylvania, for the accommodation of the president of 
the United States, on the removal of the temporary 
seat of government from New York to Philadelphia. 
President Washington, however, declined the offer 
of it on constitutional grounds. It is about one hun- 
dred feet front, and nearly of the same depth. After 
remaining unoccupied for some years, it Vv-as pur- 
chased by the trustees of the university, for the-use 
of that institution. 

The building is three stories high: the ascent is by 
a flight of marble steps, leading into a hall contain- 
ing the main stair case; from this hall, you enter 
the grand vestibule which is surmounted by a dome 
lighted by a cupola: a gallery runs round the vesti- 
bule, and is supported by eight Corinthian columns, 
under which are the doors leading into the lecture 
rooms and apartments. Doors from the gallery also 
communicate v/ith the apartments in the second 
story. Tlie offices ai-e in the basement story. The 
apartments are spacious, and accommodate the pro- 
vost and vice provost, besides the classes. 

Four years since, a separate building of an octan- 
gular form, crowned by a dome, was erected to the 
E e 



326 INDEPENDENT TABERNAtLK,. 

;south, but connected with the former, for the express 
purpose of holding the medical lectures. The rooms 
are calculated for each particular professor. 

The Independent Tabernacle, 

Of which the Rev. Mr. Joyce is pastor, is situate 
up a court from Fourth street, between High and 
Chesnut streets. It was built in the years 1805—6, 
and with a great degree of neatness and simplicity. 
The form of its plan is a parallelogram, terminated 
at one end by a semi-circle, wherein stand the pulpit 
and choir. The exterior elevation, presents a range 
of semi-circular windows below, and a similar range 
of spacious windows above. The galleries are shal- 
low, and supported entirely from the wall, except 
that fronting the pulpit, which is carried by columns. 
The pulpit is spacious, on each side of which are 
desks for the chief singers. The pews below, are 
one hundred and sixty-two in number, conveniently 
arranged, with spacious aisles. 

The whole dimensions of this building from out 
to out, are sixty by ninety feet. 

The Baptist. Church, 

Now erecting in Sansom or George street, above 
Eighth street, irom the originality of its design, 
deserves a particular description. 

The plan ot this church, within, is a rotundo, ninety 
feet diameter, surmounted by a dome, crowned with 
alanthorn or cupola, upwards of twenty feet diameter. 
The walls, with the dome, are elevated upwards of 
fifty feet above the ground, built of brick, and the 
dome constructed oi short pieces of plank, upon the 
principle adopted in that of the Halle de Bled, at 
Paris. From the top of the walls, three steps encir 



BAPTIST CHURCH. S,'7 

cle the building before the swell of the dome ap- 
pears, the rise of which is at an angle of forty-five 
degrees. In front and r^-ar of the rotundo, square 
projections, of sixty feet extent, come forward ; that 
in the rear, to provide space for vestry rooms, rising 
only one story ; that in the front, to accommodate 
the stair cases of the galleries, rising on a marble 
basement to the common height of the walls. 

The front projection comes to the line of the street, 
in form of wings, separated by a colonnade, and are 
crowned by two belfries or cupolas. 

The principal entrance into the church will be by a 
flight of marble steps into an Ionic colonnade ; on 
either hand, are doors leading to the stair cases 
of the galleries : from this colonnade you pass 
through a great Venetian door into the grand aisle, 
leading direct to the baptistry and pulpit ; two other 
aisles are to run parallel with this, and one main aisle 
to cross the whole in the diameter of the church. At 
the termination of all these aisles, are doors of outlet 
from the building. The baptistry is situate in the 
centre of the circle, in view of every part of the 
gallery, and will be surrounded by an open balus- 
trade, and when not in use, for the ordinance of 
baptism, closed over by a floor to accommodate the 
choir. 

The galleries, which are described, concentric with 
the great cnxle, circumscribe the nave of the church, 
except in that section occupied by the pulpit, and 
are supported by twelve columns. The pulpit, which 
will be placed to front the grand aisle, is to be a 
continuation of the galleries, and to come forward, 
supported by a screen of columns. The space under 
the pulpit to be closed and thrown into the vestry 
rooms behind, bixt may at any time be opened, the 
screen being constituted of folding doors. 



^^^ rHEATKE. 



Ihe eircumierence of the building is righted bv 
large square windows below, and a ring ot semi'- 
circular windows above the galleries. The great 
lanthorn oi the dome, immediately over the bantis- 
try, ights the centre, and ventilates th(S Mhok 
Church, bemg encircled with sashes which open and 
shut at pleasure. The height to the apex of this laiv 
thorn, from the floor, is upwards of fifty feet 

The foot of the dome will be encompassed by a 
broad moulded band, above which two other bands 
will run round. The lanthorn also to Irave its soffit 
enriched with mouldings. 

The pews below will oe so disposed as to run 
jxirallel with the transverse diameter of the room, 
the number of which, together with those in the 
gaUenes wdl exceed three hundred and twenty, 
and with the public seats wiU contain, with comfort 
upwards Of two thousand five hundred people. 

rhe design of this building was furnished by Mr. 
Mills, a pupd of Mr. Latrobe, and as the direction 
o. the execution of his design has been wisely com- 
mitted to him, we may anticipate that the building: 
when finished, will do credit to his talents, and prove 
an ornament to our cit}-. 

Mr. Mills is the first American architect, rcgu- 
larly educated to the profession, in his own country 

Theatre, 

The theatre was first opened in Philadelphia " by 
a company of comedians from London," on the 15th 
April 1754, with the '' Fair Penitent," and " Miss 
in her Teens ;" a prologue and epilogue, written for 
the occasion, xvere spoken by Mr. Rigby and Mrs 
Hallam; the part of "the servant" wa^ performed 
by the late Mr., then " Master Lewis Hallam." 



THEATKE. 329 

Ihe placcipf exhibition had been originally built 
for a store,, and was situate in Water street, near 
Pine street, extending towards the Delaware. How 
long they played there, is uncertain. They after- 
wards erected a building expressly for their use in 
Cedar Street, the S. W. corner of Vernon street, then 
in the outskirts of the city. While performing here, 
Mr. Douglass joined the corps, who after a feu- 
years, went to Jamaica, where he was appointed 
king's printer. At the date of their first exhibition, 
popular prejudices were powerful against every spe- 
cies of theatrical exhibition, and petitions were more 
than once presented to the legislature, to put a stop 
to them. The synod of the Presbyterians, in a general 
convocation, July 1759, also lent the aid of their in- 
fluence against the theatre, by petitions to the go- 
vernor, and to the legislature, which were published ; 
and a few days after, the theatrical corps announced 
for exhibition, the " Tragedy of Douglass, by the 
Rev. Mr. Home, minister of the kirk of Scotland.'' 

Sometime before the revolutionary war, the theatre 
in Cedar street, between Fourth and Fifth streets, 
was erected by the elder Mr. Hallam and the 
late Mr. Henry. Before the commencement of hos- 
tilities the whole corps embarked for Jamaica, where 
they remained until after the peace, when they again 
returned to this country ; but a law of the state pre- 
vented their performing for several years. In 1793, 
Mr. Wignell, who formerly belonged to the old 
company, arrived with a number of excellent per- 
formers, from England, who commenced their career 
the following winter, in the New Iheatre, in Ches- 
nut street, which had been recently built by a com- 
pany upon a tontine principle. 

It is but justice to say, that, whenever required, 
the proprietors of the theatre have cheerfully lent 
their assistance in promoting any undertaking for 



330 THEATRE 

the public good, and that occasionalljd the interest 
of religion has been promoted by their ]|eneiactions ; 
but the poor, the public charitable institutions for 
medical relief, and those for gratuitous education, 
nay the afRicted, whether from fire or pestilence, in 
other cities of the union, have on numerous occasions 
received the benefit of their voluntary labours. 

The theatre in Chesnut, near Sixth street, was 
founded in the year 1791; and enlarged and im- 
proved, as it now stands, in 1805. It presents a hand- 
some front on Chesnut street, of ninety feet, includ- 
ing two wings, of fifteen feet each. The centre 
building is ornamented with two spirited and well 
executed figures, of tragedy and com.edy,* on each 
side of a great Venetian window, over which, in two 
circular tablets, are emblematical insignia. The top 
of this centre building is crowned by a pediment. 
The wings, opened by large windov/s, recede a little 
from the front, above, but project below, twelve feet, 
to the line of the street, faced with maible ; these 
pavilions are decoi-ated by emblematic figures, in ta- 
blets, and connected together by a colonnade of ten 
fancy Corinthian columns. The extreme depth of the 
theatre is one hundred and thirty-four feet ; the in- 
terior is judiciously and handsomely arranged. In 
the wings are the green room, dressing rooms, scene 
rooms, &c. Through the projecting wings or pavi- 
lions, you pass to the stairs of the galleries ; under 
the colonnade, the left hand door leads to the pit, 
but to the boxes you ascend in front, by a flight of 
marble steps, enter the lobby and pass to the corri- 
dors, which communicate with all the boxes. Those 
in front of the stage are disposed in lorm of an am- 
phitheatre; the seats of the whole, with those of the 



• By Rush. 



emeus. 331 

pit and galler}', are arranged so as to give the spec- 
tator the greatest advantages. 

The stage occupies a front between the boxes of 
thii'ty-six feet, and runs back upwards of seventy- 
one feet. Over the stage, occupying part of the en- 
tablature and plafond of the front scene, is an em- 
blematic representation of America, encouraging the 
drama, under which are the words, " For useful 
mirth, and salutary woe." 

The fronts of the lodges or boxes, together with 
the ceiling, arc handsomely gilt and decorated, hung 
with corresponding drapery between the columns. 
The scenery of the stage is well arranged, and calcu- 
lated both in execution and design to produce the 
best effect. 

For convenience, comfort and elegance of ar- 
rangement, few theatres of the size, any where, can 
vie with this. 

This theatre is computed to hold about two 
thousand persons, of which number nine hundred 
may be accommodated in the boxes. 

The Circus, now the Olympic Theatre, 

Of Messrs. Pepin and Brechard, which stands on 
the corner of Walnut and Ninth streets, was built in 
the year 1809. The dimensions, eighty feet on Wal- 
nut, by one hundred feet on Ninth street. Within, it 
was circular, seventy-five feet diameter, including the 
seats, and fifty-four feet, including the area of the 
riding course. Every office, connected with the cir- 
cus, was under this roof. Within the present year the 
building has undergone great improvements and ad- 
ditions ; the design of which is, the connection of a 
theatre with the cii'cus, similar to Sadler's Wells, in 
London, wherein pantomimes, Olympic exercises, 



Qd2 MASONIC HALL. 

and such other entertainments as are adapted to this 
species of amusement, are represented. The riding 
course will remain as it is, and from the termination 
of the amphitheatre, a straight line ot boxes pro- 
ceed, till they intersect the stage. This stage has a 
spacious front, without the avant scene, of fifty-lour 
feet, equal to the diameter of the circus. The or- 
chestra lies between the stage and riding course, on 
each side of which is a door way from under the 
stage, for the introduction of the riders into the cir- 
cus. The additions to the original building make 
the whole depth equal to one hundred and forty feet. 

The entrance into the circus is by Walnut street. 
The pit is on a level with the riding course ; the 
lodges or boxes are on a level with the stage — a cor- 
ridor, or passage, communicates with all of them. 
On this floor are rooms for refreshments ; above the 
boxes are the galleries, part of which is allotted to 
an upper tier of boxes. 

The performances at the circus, are highly enter- 
taining. It is difficult to conceive of greater feats of 
agility than are exhibited by the performers. The 
new arrangements will render the exhibitions more 
interesting and diversified. 

Masonic Hall. 

This spacious and elegant building is situate in 
Chesnut, between Seventh and Eighth streets. The 
lot is one hundred and one feet, seven inches in front, 
on Chesnut street, extending in depth one hundred 
and seventy-six feet, to a new twenty feet street, 
which has been opened in the rear of the lot. 

The building is placed about the centre of the lot 
so as to afford a handsome area in front, laid out in 
walks, skirted with grass and shrubbery, enclosed 



MASONIC hall;. • o3o 

by a dwarf wall, surmounted by an iron palisade, and 
having two Gothic gates oi the same material attached 
to white marble pillars, capped with Gothic pinnacles, 
(corresponding with those hereafter mentioned) on 
the summit of the wall. 

The front of the building is eighty-two feet, and its 
depth, sjxty-nine feet ; its height, to the top of the 
rooi, seventy feet, and from thence to the top of the 
spire, including the vane, eighty feet. It is of brick, 
designed in the Gothic style, having in front, four 
marble buttresses, of four feet in breadth, extending 
from a basement, four feet high, to the roof, and 
capped with pinnacles. In these buttresses are two 
niches, eight feet in height, and two and a half feet 
wide, finished with tracery. There are eight win- 
dows, fourteen by six feet, with an elegant central 
window, over the entrance, eleven by eighteen feet. 

The ascent to the principal story is by a 
flight of marble steps, seventeen feet long, sup- 
ported between two cheek blocks, four feet in 
height and five feet in breadth : the ornaments on 
which are the admired quarter foil pannel, sur- 
mounted by iron lamp-pleds, of a construction agree- 
ing with the style of the building. The door way and 
vestibule are enriched with appropriate ornaments : 
over the door, the larg« window is conspicuously and 
beautifully disposed, beneath a regular ox-eye arch. 
The internal arrangement of the hall exhibits an admi- 
rable union oi beauty and convenience. The vestibule, 
twenty-nine by twelvefeet, is finished in superior 
style, and conducts to the great room on the principal 
floor, which is seventy-eight feet long by th;rty-six 
feet wide; the ceiling (highly ornamented in stucco,) 
twenty-two feet in height: the centre, spandriUs and 
soffits are very beautihd. The music gallery m at the 
eastern end. On this floor are two other neatly finish- 



3S4 MASONIC HALL, 

ed apartmentSj one of them twenty-two by thirty- 
three feet, and the other seventeen by thirty-three 
feet. The division of the height of the first sto- 
ry in the southern part of the building into two 
parts, furnishes two other conitnodious rooms, im- 
mediately over, and of the same dimensions as those 
just mentioned. The ascent to the second story is 
through a spacious hall, to which there are entrances 
from the east and west sides of the building, as well 
as the front, by a geometrical stair case with maho- 
gany hand rail, supported by a neat balustrade of curl- 
ed maple. 

The northern division of the second story is ap- 
propriated to the accommodation of the grand lodge, 
and the stated meetings of the subordinate lodges, 
and consists of one splendid room, sixty feet in 
length by thirty-six feet four inches in breadth, with 
various adjoinmg apartments, adapted to the business 
of the institution. This room is finished in a style of 
superior elegance, and the furniture and decorations 
are uncommonly splendid. They are probably not 
surpassed by those of any similar society. 

The southern part of the second story is divided 
into a banqueting room, thirty-six by twenty ieet ; a 
room for the accommodation, more especially of the 
several chapters of royal arch masons, twenty-nine 
by thirty-six feet ; and several smaller apartments.- 
The chapter room is fitted up and furnished in a 
style of equal splendour and beauty, though of dissi- 
milar character ot architectural decorations and in- 
signia, with the grand lodge room, combined with 
every peculiar convenience required by that interest- 
ing degree of the order. 

This edifice is undoubtedly a considerable addi- 
tion to the many rapid improvements in architec- 
ture^ which have taken place in this city, within a 



Cl.TY HOSPITAL 'ili? 

few years past, and is highly honourable to the laud- 
able zeal and enterprize of the respectable society 
who are its proprietors. The addition of its beautiful 
spire took place on the suggestion of several res- 
pectable citizens, who regretted our deficiency in an 
article of embellishment so essential to the beauty 
of a great city. 

The City Hospital^ 

Situate on the west side of Schuylkill Fourth 
street, near the intersection of Francis's Lane, in 
West Northern Liberties, was erected for the re- 
ception Oi patients, from the city and vicinity, labour- 
ing under malignant fever. This spacious and exten- 
sive range of buildings was commenced by a former 
board of health in 1807, and i-ecently completed by 
the present, and consists of a mansion house, fiity feet 
front by forty two feet deep, and three stories in 
height ; with wings running east and west, each, one 
hundred and eight feet long, by twenty-two feet 
deep, and two stories high ; with a piazza twelve 
feet broad, extending the whole length, enclosed 
with Venetian blinds, so constructed as to admit or 
exclude air and light as occasion may require. The 
mansion house contains twenty rooms, and the 
wings thirty-six ; exclusive or cellars and garrets. 
The rooms, generally speaking, are judiciously plan- 
ned ior the comfort and accommodation oi patients ; 
water is admitted into each room by means of pipes, 
communicating with a reservoir supplied by a pump. 
Pure air can be admitted into the rooms by ventila- 
tors, and impure air discharged. Four or five hun- 
dred patients, it is presumed, may be conveniently 
accommodated, exclusive of the room necessary for 
a steward, physician, and the requisite attendants. 



j36 LITERAUY CHARACTERS, 

The buildings front the south, and are sufliciently 
near the city to admit of the safe and convenient 
removal of the sick. 

When selecting a site for so useful and necessary 
an institution, as a city hospital, it is much to be 
regretted that a more elevated situation was not 
chosen, commanding a view of the city : it might 
then have been ranked among the ornamental build- 
ings in its vicinity, and would also have been equally 
convenient and free of access, as the present. 

Public officers, in erecting permanent structures, 
ought always to consider, that the credit of a coun- 
try is connected with the taste and situation of the 
public buildings, and when the purposes to which 
they are to be applied will admit, attention ought 
always to be paid to both. 

Literary Characters. 

Births. Deaths. 

I(i74_1751. James Logan. Classical and Oriental 
Literature, Law, Politics, Botany. 
Thomas Makin. Latin Description of 
Pennsylvania. 

1701 — 1777. John Bartram. Botany. 

1702 — 1764. Gilbert Tennant. Sermons. 

1705 — 1779. Francis Allison, D. D. Classical Li- 
terature, Divinity. 

1706 — 1790. Benjamin Franklin. Natural Philo- 
sophy, Politics. 4 vols, of his works 
have been recently published by 
Wm. Duane, of Philadelphia. 

171-2 Ebenezer Kinnersley, Natural Philo- 

sophy.* 

* See Franklin's Experiments and Observations on Electricity. 
London 1/69. In this work Dr. Franklin makes acknowledg- 
ments to his friends, Thomas Hopkinson, Philip Syng and 
others, for their assistance and hints. 



LITEKARY CHAUACTERS 



•337 



Sirliis. Deaths. 
1722 — 1793. 
1722 — 1808. 
1728—1803. 



1732—1803. 



1732 — 1796. 
1735—1789. 
1736 — 1763. 
1738—1791, 



1742—1767. 
1742—1798. 



1791. 
1755 — 1795. 



1793. 
1739—1798. 
1777—1804. 
1734—1808. 

1809. 

1810. 



James Sproat. Sermons. 

John Redman, M. D. Medicine. 

Wm. Smith, D. D. Sermons, Astro- 
nomy. His works in 2 vols, were 
published last year by his son 
Charles. 

John Ewing, D. D. Mathematics, 
Astronomy, Natural Philosophy. 
His lectures on Natural Philosophy, 
have been published in 1 vol. 8vo. 

David Rittenhouse. Astronomy. 

John Morgan, M. D. Medicine. 

Thomas Godfrey.* Poetry. Plays. 

Francis Hopkinson. Law. Miscella- 
neous Literature. Works in 3 vols. 
8vo. 

Nath. Evans. Poetry. 

James Wilson. Law Lectures. His 
works are published in 3 vols. 8vo. 

Lewis Evans. Map ot the Middle 
Colonies. Analysis of the same. 
Published 1755. 

Nicholas Scull. Map of Pennsylvania. 
Published 1759. 

Peter Markoe. Poetry. 

Wjn. Bradford. Inquiry how far the 
punishment of death is necessary 
in Pennsylvania, 1793. 

Wm.Waring. Mechanical Philosophy. 

Jacob Duche. Sermons. 2 vols. 

John B. Linn. Poetry. Theology. 

J. Dickinson. Politics. Works in 2 vols. 

James Stewart, M. D. Medicine. 

Charles B. Brown. Miscellaneous 
Literature. 



• Son of Thomas Godfrey, inventor of tlie quadrant, called 
ITadley's quadrant. • 

r f 



33S PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 



Franlilbi's Legacy. 

Dr. Franklin left one thousand pounds sterling to 
the corporation of the city/for the purpose oi loaviing 
*' to such young married artificers, under the age ot 
twenty-five years, as have served an apprenticeship 
in the city, and faithtully fulfilled the duties required 
in their indentures." Two sureties are required to 
sign a bond, with the applicant, for the repayment of 
the money ; the sums are to be proportioned by the 
discretion of the managers ; but none are to exceed 
^60, nor to be less than ^15 to each applicant. In 
order to serve as many as possible in their turn, as 
well as to make the repayment of the principal bor- 
rowed, more easy, each borrower is required to 
pay, with the yearly interest, one tenth part oi the 
principal, which sum of principal and interest, shall 
be again lent out to fresh borrowers. The interest is 
to be at the rate of five per cent, that is, one per cent, 
lower than the interest as established by law. The 
corporation of the city were intrusted with the fund, 
and requested to undertake the management of it ; 
and agreeably to the desire of the donor, it has been 
regularly loaned, and, at the present time, has in- 
creased to more than double the original sum. The 
following is the last statement of this fund, by the 
city treasurer. 

Amount of interest at five per cent on obli- 
gations, on 31st December, 1810, S9,063 00 
Balance in the treasury, 483 80 



9,546 80 



Deduct amount of the legacy, originally 

one thousand pounds, sterling, 4,444 44 

Increase of the legacy on 31st December, 

1810, • 5,102 36 



PUBLIC BEXEFACTOUS. 3jy 

The principle that actuated the benevolent deviser 
of the legacy was certainly highly praiseworthy^ 
viz. the " assistance of young married artificers in 
setting up their business ;" and originated froni 
what occurred to himscil'. '' I have considered," he 
remarks, " that among artizans, good apprentices, 
are most likely to make good citizens, and havmg 
myself been bred to a manual art, pruning, in my 
native town, and afterwards assisted to set up my 
business in Philadelphia, by kind loans of money 
from two friends there, which was the foundation of 
my fortune, and of all the utdily in life, that may 
be ascribed to me : 1 wish to be useful even alter my 
death, if possible, in forming and advancing other 
young men, that may be serviceable to their coun- 
try." 

At the end of one hundred years, if not done 
before, one hundred thousand pounds of the capital 
is to be employed in bringing the waters of the 
Wissahickon creek into the town, so as to supply 
the inhabitants. He also recommends making the 
Schuylkill completely navigable. At the end of the 
second hundred years, four millions, sixty-one thou- 
sand pounds are to be divided between the inhabi- 
tants of the city of Philadelphia, and the govern- 
ment of Pennsylvania. 

Two thousand pounds were left by Dr. Franklm 
to the town of Boston, his native place, for purposes 
similar to the above. 

Private Provision for the Poor, 

In p. 292, is given an account of the public provision 
for the support of the poor of the city and county, 
who are incapable of earning their living, by reason 
of age, or chronic disability, or who are sick and 
unable to pay for medical .relief ; there is also relief 



.^40 rUBLIC BENEFAOTORb. 

of other natures provided for them, owing to the 
bounty of uidividuals. 

1. *' The Fund for supplying the Necessitous Poor 
of the City of Philadelphia with Fuel," consists of 
the following species ol stock, viz. 

One thousand nine hundred and thirty-two dollars 
eighty-eight cents oi 3 per cent, stock oi the United 
States. This stock was purchased by the proceeds 
of a periorniance in horsemanship, at the Old Circus, 
by the late Mr. Ricketts. 

Four shares ol stock of the bank of Pennsylvania. 
This stock is a part of the proceeds of the old free 
masons lodge, in Lodge Alley, on part of the lot 
now occupied by the bank of Pennsylvania, and was 
sold under an act of the legislature of Pennsylvania, 
of 6th September, 1785.* 

Fifty shares of water loan. 

Twenty-seven of said shares were produced by a 
legacy of one thousand pounds, given by the late 
John Bleakley, esq. b)^ his will, dated 19th April, 
1802, to the corporation of the city of Philadelphia, 
as a fund to procure fuel during the winter season, 
&c. and the remaming 

Twenty -three shares %vere produced by the sum of 
two thousand two hundred and seventy-eight dollars 
fifty-nine cents, being the residuary legacy ol Eli- 
zabeth Kearkpatrick,f which she bequeathed to the 
said corporation lor the benefit of the poor. 

The annual proceeds oi said stock is as iollows, viz. 
Interest on Sl932, 88, of 3 per cent. $57 96 

Dividends on the 4 bank shares, 128 

Interest on the 50 shares w^ater loan, 300 



S485 96 



* See p. 29a. 

f I'he widow of a house carpenter. 



PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 5i4l 

The above is distributed amongst the poor of the 
city, in wood. 

2. " The Fund, to relieve those who may be re- 
duced to the necessity or being placed in the City 
Hospital, during the existence oi the Yellow Fever,'' 
consists of the following stock, viz. 

Twenty seven shares of water loan v/ere produced 
by a legacy of one thousand pounds, which the late 
John Bleakley, esq. by his will, dated 19th April, 
1802, gave to the corporation of the city of Philadel- 
phia, to establish a fund under the above name. 

During the yellow fevers oi 1803 and 1805, the 
interest on the above stock was paid over to the 
board of health. 

The city having, providentially, had no visitation 
of the yellow fever since 1805, the interest which 
accrued on the above stock was, in the beginning of 
1811, directed by the councils to be invested in 
stock ; and it procured eight shares of water loan. 

So that said fund now consists of thirty-five shares 
of water loan, giving an annual interest of two hun- 
dred and ten dollars. 

Among the distinguished benefactors of Phila- 
delphia, the late John Keble stands conspicuous, 
he having left a very large sum in the hands of the 
episcopal ministers oi Philadelphia, to be distributed 
to pious and charitable purposes, according to their 
judgment. 

Mr. Keble was indebted to the charity of the 
" Blue Coat Hospital ot London," sor his education. 
He arrived in this country very young, and was ior 
a long series o: years a clerk in the land office of 
Pennsylvan a. This situation lUrnished him with the 
opportunity ol acquirmg land upon advantageous 
terms, and o) selling again to a profit to the Uu-ge 
speculators, at the time when the land mania pre- 
vailed. His expenses being but small, and his in- 
F f 2 



342 PUBLIC BENEFACTORS. 

dustry unceasing, he accumulated a very large for- 
tune. By his marriage he acquired some propert) , 
which he by will bequeadied among his wife's rela- 
tions. The residue o his estate, except some trifling 
legacies, he left to the trustees before-mentioned. 

The distribution Avas as follows: 
To the contributors oi the Pennsylvania 

hospital, - _ _ S20,800 

To the Philadelphia dispensary, - 16,812 94 

To the Magdalen Society, - - 14,580 78 
To the Welsh Society, - - 3,077 74 

To the Humane Society, - - 2,218 50 

To the Society ior the Relief of Poor 
and aged Members of the German Lu- 
theran Congregation in the City of 
Philadelphia, &c. - - 1,075 

To the Pennsylvania Society for the 

abolition oi Slavery, &c. - 1,096 

To the Philadelphia Society ("or the Es- 
tablishment and Support ot Charity 
Schools, - - - 3,184 50 

To the Hibernian Society for the Relief 

o. Emigrants irom Ireland, &c. - 3,127 94 
To the G' rman Society contributing for 

the Relie; oi distressed Germans, &c. 3,271 94 
To the Society ior the Reliei Oi Poor and 

distressed Masters o. Ships, &c. 5,335 50 

To the Society ior the Institution and 

Support OI Sunday Schools, &c. - 2,198 
To the Scots Thistle Society, - 3,349 17 

To the University Oi Penns}lvania, - 7,413 83 
To the Academy of the Protestant Epis- 
copal Church, in the city of Philadel- 
phia, - . . _ 15,057 63 
To the Philadelphia French Benevolent 

Society, - = , . 704 64 



56103,114 11 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 343 

The late William Carter, and Petty, two 

of the early inhabitants of Philadelphia, left one hun- 
dred dollars each, to be laid out in bread, to be an- 
nually distributed to the poor of the city, by the 
board of guardians. An additional provision for a 
supply oi bread to the poor, arises from a donation 
of the late John Thompson, of two hundred dollars, 
which sum is to be equally divided every year be- 
tween the " Female Society for the employment of 
the poor ;" and the "• Female Hospitable Society." 

The following was omitted to be noticed among 
the charitable societies : 

Society for Promoting- Vaccination among the Poor, 

On the 10th of March, 1809, a number of persons 
had a meeting, and declared by die 'ollowing minute, 
" That the object of their assembling, was to consider 
o; the expediency oi establishing a society "or pro- 
moting vaccination, a preventive of the small pox, 
especially among the poorer class of society." On 
the 29th ol the same month, a constitution was pro- 
posed and adopted, which provides .or the appoint- 
ment of an acting committee ov twelve members, a 
clerk, treasurer, and six physicians ; it also directs 
that each individual admitted into membership shall 
pay two dollars, and an annual subscript on. 

The members of the society are d.vided into com- 
mittees, and suitable districts oi the city and liber- 
ties, being assigned to them, it is their duty to seek 
for objects recognised by the association, and report 
them to the physicians, who call at their respective 
dwellings, and vaccinate them iree of expense. 

The physicians are paid b)^ the society or their 
professional services. The association is encouraged 



344 TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 

to persevere in its labours, having already had about 
three thousand persons vaccinated. 

Tours in the Vicinity of Philadelphia. 

No city in the United States affords so many di- 
versified rides in its immediate vicinity, as Phil»a- 
delphia. Almost every street leads to a new route, 
which after a short distance, is crossed by other 
roads that lead back to the city, so that the ride 
may at any time be shortened at pleasure, without 
the necessity of returning by the same route that yoU 
took when going out. 

The following tours are in particular worth notice. 

Proceeding down Fifth street, you enter the Pas- 
syunk road, and pass numerous gardens that supply 
the Philadelphia markets with vegetables ; and se- 
veral cross roads that lead to the Gloucester point 
road, and to the lower bridge on Schuylkill. At the 
distance oi about three miles, by turning off to the 
leit at the " Blue ball tavern," you come to the lux- 
uriant meadows of Schuylkill point or Greenwich, 
where a practical farmer, or an amateur, will be 
highly gratified by viewing grass fields, in the high- 
est possible state of cultivation, and covered with 
noble cattle. These meadows ibrm the neck of land 
between the Delaware and Schuylkill, the inroads of 
which, on the exposed part, are deiended by a strong 
bank, -aced with stone.* 

Returning :rom those charming fields, to the main 
road, we pass many natural meadows, extending to 
the Schuvlkill, upon crossing which, we land on State 
island. Turning the eye to the left, on the Delaware 



* The owners of those meadows are incorporated by law, and 
S<fj)port the banks out of a common fund. 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. '34S 

shore, we see two rows of buildings, part of which 
were erected at an early period, and used until 1801, 
as a lazaretto, for the reception of sick persons ar- 
riving from sea. Here the peaceable French settlers 
from Nova Scotia, were landed, and accommodated 
for some time, after being cruelly shipped off, r.nd 
their settlement destroyed, by an English naval 
force, about the year 1756. To the south east and 
beyond these buildings, the flag at Fort Mifflin is 
seen. Persons desirous of viewing that interesting 
spot, may readily find a conveyance by inquiring 
at the ferry tavern. State island is the great resort 
of snipes and woodcocks, and on that account much 
frequented by our sportsmen. 

Proceeding down through an immense extent of 
meadows, equal in richness and produce to any in 
the world, for about a mile and a half, the load 
turns off to the right, and comes out at the " Blue 
bell inn," on the Chester road,* or if a greater extent 
of ride be desired, after having proceeded along the 
right hand road a small distance, the first road to the 
left, at the south end of" Boon's dam," may betaken; 
this leads through extensive natural meadows to Darby 
creek. The distance is about five miles, and the road 
level. In sight of the creek, on the Delaware, are the 
new Lazaretto, and the buildings connected with, 
that establishment. Ci'ossing the creek, in a scow, 
you come shortly into the southern post road, at the 
eleven mile stone ; turning to the leTt, you are with- 
in iour miles of the town of Chester. At the first 
creek, from the turn off, on this road, is the tan yard 
of Messrs. M'llvains, where the curious may see 
the various manipulations in tanning leather, per- 

* The spade and shovel manufactory, at the Bell, will afford 
amusement to those who have not seen the process of making; 
thgse common tools- 



546 TOURS IN THE YICINITY 

formed by means of mechanical contrivances, which 
greatly diminish the labour of the process. 

Chester is the seat of justice of Delaware county, 
and in the early settlement of the province was a 
place of considerable note. The Swedes who first 
settled in the town and adjacent land, named it 
" Upland," after a province in their own country. 
It was here that the first English settlers landed, and 
that Penn assembled the first representatives, and 
held the first court of justice. The house, in which 
the legislature sat, was standing a few years since. 

In the church yard, upon the back of a dark stone, 
raised beneath au old elm, is the following inscrip- 
tion. 

In Barbarian bondage 

And cruel tyranny 
For ten years together 
I served in slavery 
After this mercy brought mc 
To my country fair 
At last I drowned was 
In river Delaware. 
On the other side is the following inscription r 
For 
The memory of Francis Brooke 
who died August the 19th 
1704 
Aged 50 years. 
If a more distant excursion, or a view of the cele- 
brated flour mills on Brandywine, be desirable, the 
main road to Wilmington may be taken. The mills 
are thickly placed on each side the stream ; and at 
one, or more of them, may be seen the various ope- 
rations of the manufacture of flour, from the hoisting 
up of the grain from the shallop, to the packing of 
the flour in a barrel, performed by the ingenious ma,- 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 347 

cTiinery of our countryman, and self taught genius, 
Oliver Evans. 

Proceeding to the westward, by way of High 
street, the first object that strikes the attention is the 
bridge, over the Schuylkill ; designed by that origi- 
nal and self taught genius Timothy Palmer, of 
Newburyport.* From the middle of this bridge, es- 
pecially it the tide be up, the eye will be gratified by 
a fine prospect of both shores, some handsome 
country seats being on the bank, and the land agree- 
ably undulated : the United States arsenal is seen in 
a south-eastern direction, distant about two miles. 
Proceeding over the river, and ascending the hill, we 
come to the board-yard of Messiss. M'llvains, where a 
few minutes may be agreeably passed away in view- 
ing an expeditious contrivance to dress shingles, by 
knives fixed in a wheel, which is connected with a 
shaft, and turned by a horse. A man and boy will 
readily dress, carry out and pile away two thousand 
in a day, but by attaching the works to a water 
wheel, the same hands could finish three thousand 
shingles daily. Two sets of hands might be employed 
on the same machine. The turnpike, leading to Lan- 
caster, takes to the right : the road due west, leads 
through the village of Hamilton, in sight, to West 
Chester, distant twenty-three miles. 

The great southern post road passes to the left : 
proceeding down it, you have a fine view of the cityj 
and on the right are seen the progressive inclosures 
and improvements of land, which, alter the woods 
had been cut down, was suffered to grow up into a 
thicket, almost impenetrable, until the recent sale of 
the lots ; and in a few years the land will be covered 



* For a particular account of the bridge, see the Memoirs of 
the Agricultural Society, Philikdelphia. Vol. L 



3i8 TOURS IN THE! VICINITt, 

with the boxes of the citizens, whose avocatiofis 
ma)^ not permit a more distant retreat from the heat 
ef the town. 

At the distance of about a mile, is the " Wood- 
lands," the elegant seat of William Hamilton, esq. 
to which every genteel stranger has ready access. 
Here every thing will be seen, that can charm the 
eye, or gratify the admirer of rural scenery, the man 
of taste, the botanist, or lover of fine arts. 

About two miles down the same road, a white 
gate, on the left, points out the entrance to the bo- 
tanic garden of Mr. Bartram, which was begun about 
eighty-three years since, by John Bartram, and con- 
tains about eight acres. From the house there is a 
gentle descent to the river Schuylkill ; from the bank 
oi which a fine prospect opens ot that river, and of 
rich meadows up and down on both sides. The De- 
laware is also seen at a distance. The gai'den con- 
tains many of the tall southern forest trees, which 
have been successively introduced by the father, or 
his son William, and have been naturalized, among 
which the ioUowing deserve particular notice. 

Cupressus disticha, bald cypress ; Pinus palustris, 
long leaved pme; Magnolia auriculata ; M.tripetala; 
M. grandiflora. Franklinea Alatamaha, (Esculus pa- 
via, (E. flava, horse chesnut; besides many shrubs of 
great beauty and excellence : of ail which supplies 
may be had. li the ride be continued to Chester, a 
stop may be made at the " Plough Inn," about three 
miles below Darby, irom which place there is a 
charming prospect in clear weather, of the Delaware, 
and the intermediate fields. 

North Eastern Route. 

Passing up Front street as far as the hay scales^ 
take the right hand road, and crossing the tu/npike, 
Qeading to Frankford, Bristol, &c.) you ride on the 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY, 349 

bank of the Delaware through Kensington, called 
Shakamexunk by the natives ; here, in addition to the 
pleasing spectacle which is exhibited, of ship build- 
ing, m all the various stages, you are gratitied with 
a fine view of the harbour of Ph'ladeiphia; and of 
the village of Camden and Cooper's ferry, on the op- 
posite shore. It was here too, tradition tells us, that 
William Penn iormed his first treaty with the 
Indian natives, in 16S2: the stump of a venera- 
ble elm tree, (blown down March 3, 1810,) the 
branches ol which is said to have formed a canopy for 
the peaceful counsellors, may yet be seen on the 
bank, (immediately in front of a singularly con- 
structed, and ancient edifice) the only frail memorial 
to designate the spot where that primitive, and ce- 
lebrated negociation was conducted. 

Leaving the river, you go to what is called the 
Point no Point road, passing the glass house, on 
the right; and in addition to extensive market gar- 
dens, and several handsome summer retreats, you 
cannot lail to be mterested by beholding a range of 
meadow, three mdes long, banked in irom the Dela- 
ware, on which herds of cattle are seen grazing. 
Having progressed six miles up the Point no Point 
road, you may visit an inn, to which the right 
hand way conducts, or taking the left, may cross 
Frank. ord creek, to a village of that name, now in 
sight. Aiter crossing the creek, the right hand road 
affords a very pleasant ride, and comes out above 
Holmesburgh, distant eleven miles from town. From 
Franklord you may pass down the turnpike to 
the city, and if you please, call atHarrowgate, about 
a mile below the tovvu, on the right. When you have 
reached the city, irom hence, your ride will have been 
fourteen miles. If, when at Franklord, inclination 
1 prompt to a more extensive tour, you may pass up 
the turnpike, seven miles, to the Fox Chase tavern ; 



350 TOURS IN TUB VICINITY. 

a spacious white edifice, and well provided inn, si- 
tuated at the junction o; two roads ; here you may 
deliberate whether, by pursuing the right hand one, 
you will visit Bath, an elegant establishment, one mile 
northward of Bristol, and twenty miles Trom Phi- 
ladelphia,* or take the lett, and pfss over a fine 
country, through the village ot Morrisville, and 
thence across the Delaware bridge to the city ot 
Trenton, in New Jersey. From Trenton you may 
return by the post road, 'through Bristol, and visit 
the rural city ol" Burlington, immediately opposite to 
it, on the New Jersey shore. 

From Frankibrd you may take another course. 
At the upper end ol the village a road passes off from 
the turnpike to the left hand; pursuing this, you ride 
a few miles, passing Ox:ord church ; tlience, a short 
distance to a place called the Fox Chase; here it will 
be proper to inquire the most direct way past 
Friend's meeting house, (Ab;ngton,)f near which is 
the cave, for many years inhabited by the celebrated 
Benjamin Lay, a singular but pious character, to 
Jenkin Town : being now ten miles from the city, 
you may either return there or proceed northwardly, 
four miles, to Willow Grove, where, at Rex's tavern, 
you can be well entertained : here is also a fine 
spring, highly impregnated with iron, and a spacious 
bathhouse, supplied with the mineral water, for the 
accommodation of visitors. 

North Route. 

The most direct w^ay to Germantown, is to pasj 
vip Third street, at the extremity of which, you mee' 

* The water is chalybeate, and highly useful in cases of pur 
debility, gravel, jaundice, &c. 

+ This phice is very liealthful ; there is also a chaljbeat 
spring of considerable powers. 



TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 331 

the turnpike road, and at the distance of six miles 
from the city, reach tliut hcalthkil vilhige. There, 
are to be had the well known woollen hosiers^, which 
bear the name of the town, manu,actm-ed in the 
families of the German setilers. Germantown is a 
summer retreat ior a number of citizens, and ex- 
cepting its airy and elevated situation, being on 
the first ridge after you leax^e Philadelphia, it has 
little to interest or d-tain strangers. From this town 
you may pass by several roads in a westwardly di- 
rection, into what is called the township line road, 
and thus vary the ride back to the city, which e>dii- 
bits a fine view from the heights. Previously to 
leaving the township line road, and resummg the 
turnpike, into which it conducts you, about tv/o 
miles Irom Philadelphia, you may be gratified by 
visiting '•' Upsal botanic garden," established and con- 
ducted by Bernard M'iVIahon. This garden is near 
the junction of the township line and turnpike roads. 
When you have reached the city, your ride will have 
been thirteen miles. 

li, when at Germantown, you wish to extend youf 
excursion, you may pass up the turnpike, through 
the village of Cresham, ascending as you proceed, to 
Chesnut-hill ;* thence to the Perkiomen creek : a 
short distance irom the bridge which crosses that 
stream, are the celebrated lead mines, well worth 
visiting. The mineralogist will be amply repaid by 
his visit to this place. 

North Western Route. 

A most delighti'ul ride is offered by pursuing the 
following course. Having crossed the Schuylkill 



* From this place the view is extensive and picturesque. 



352 TOURS IN THE VICINITY. 

br'dg-e, (High street) take the first right hand road, 
this will conduct vou along the river Schuylkill, 
someimes on its margin, at others on its high banks ; 
the- ti'.stc 111 villas scattered on both sides of this 
bcauiilul stream, added to the variegated decora- 
tions oi nature, cannot fail to gratity. Having pro- 
cee-ied on th's road about lour miles, you may either 
stop at IMendenhall's inn, or cross the river on a 
chain bridge o^ modern construction, a short distance 
above, and in sight of the ialls, to a hovise of public 
entertainment, called the Falls Tavern, on the eastern 
side oi the Scluiylkill. The oil mill of Mr. Hagner 
at this place, may prove interesting to some. You 
are now on the Ridge road, and may either return 
by it to the city, go to Germantown, or proceed up- 
ward, passing Roiieson's fiour mills, on the Wissa- 
hiccon creek,* near its confluence with the Schuyl- 
ki 1, thtncc over a fine picturesque country to Spring 
Mdi,f well worth visiting, near which is the vine- 
yard of the Pennsylvania Vine Company. 

You are now again on the margin of the river, and 
will certainly be gratified with the scenery pre- 
sented to view; to enjoy which, on your return to the 
city, you may, (though the road is not very good) 
having crossed the Schuylkill at the ferry, proceed 
along its shore, visiting on your way, a soap stone 
quarry, and likewise be mterested by witnessing 
twelve saws ingeniously contrived to move by water, 
for cutting large blocks oi marble : a short distance 
below this, you cross on what is called the Flat Rock 



* The scenery up this creek Is very I'oraantic ; the creek pass- 
es in a serpentine course among majestic hills, from the sides of 
which rocks in rude disorder, impend over the stream. 

■{■ This spring is a real curiosity. The water never freezes ; 
nor does that of the Sch\iylkil!, for some distance above and 
below where the spring empties into it 



■fOURS IX THE VICINITY. 35:1 

bridge, built last year,* thence go eastwardly to the 
Ridge road, and back to Philadelphia. 

The mineralogist will not regret a scramble on ei- 
ther shore of the Schuylkill, IVom Spring Mill, to a 
few miles below. 

In addition to these short excursions around the 
city, strangers, who have leisure, would be gratified 
by the Ibllowing tour. First, visit Easton on the 
Delaware, the views near which place, are uncom- 
monly picturesque : one in particular, about four 
miles on this side of the town, will command atten- 
tion. From Easton to the Wind Gap or opening 
through the Kittatinny or Blue JMountain, the dis- 
tance is about twelve miles ; a visit to that place and 
to the Water Gap, or place of passage of the Dela- 
ware through the same mountain, some miles to the 
east, will be amply repaid, and an examination of the 
localities will furnish the geologist with materials 
for an inquiry into the cause of those two singular 
disruptions of the great primordial ridge. From the 
gap, the rout may be to the Moravian towns of Na- 
zareth and Bethlehem, where the prnnitive manners, 
and the peculiar discipline of that religious society, 
particularly at the latter place, cannot fail to interest. 
Then proceed to Reading, where the grand views 
from the Schuylkill's bank enchant the beholder: to 
Hummell's town, near to which is the curious and 
interesting Swetara cave ; to Harrisburgh, on the 
Susquehanna, recently fixed on as the Juture seat 
of the state government ; to Carlisle, Chambers- 
burgh and Shippensburgh. Returning through York 
and Lancaster, the stranger will be gratified by pass- 
ing through a rich and highly cultivated country. 



This bridge is well worth examining;. 
Gg2 



:154 PROJECTED IMPEO^TEMENTS. 

At the sea shore, Long Branch, N. J.: the Yellow- 
Springs, in Chester county, and Bath, near Bristol, 
on the Delaware, invalids will find health, gaiety 
and fashion. 

Projected Improvements. 

In liTGO, a noble scheme was set on foot by some 
patriotic citizens of Philadelphia, to connect the 
Delaware with the western lakes by a chain of inland 
navigation : and on their suggestion, commissioners 
were appointed by law to determine the most eligible 
route, and to calculate the cost of the intended mea- 
sure. Two companies were incorporated in 1791 and 
1792, to undertake the work; one, for connecting the 
Schuylkill and Susquehanna, a distance of seventy- 
nine miles, and the other for uniting the waters of 
the Delaware and Schuylkill, along the east bank of 
the latter river, sixteen miles to Norristown. The 
capital of each company was four hundred thousand 
dollars. An eiiiinent engineer, from England, was 
sent for, but in the eagerness to have the work fi- 
nishecj^ much money was expended before his arri- 
val. Upon a due examination of the ground and 
work of the Delaware and Schuylkill canal, he re- 
ported that the whole might be completed for the 
sum subscribed ; six miles were nearly completed, 
but the stockholders declmed paying their instal- 
ments, and the work ceased. The legislature grant- 
ed a lottery to aid both canals ; the second class of 
which was badly managed, and thus the progress of 
the scheme was stopped, alter two hundred and 
twenty-one thousand seven hundred and ten dollars 
had been expended. 

At the last session of the legislature, a law was 
passed, which it is to be hoped will have the effect 
of finishing this useful and important plan of internal 
navigation. 



NUMBER OF CARRIAGES. liSS 

By the law, permission is granted for a union to 
take place between the two companies, and to open 
a complete canal and lock navigation from one or 
more points on the river Susquehanna to the tide 
waters on Schuylkill or Delaware, or both ; also to 
contract for supplying the city and Northern Liber- 
ties and Southwark, with water, and making wet and 
dry docks. When the canal shall be completed, the 
property is to be vested in the compan}^, for fifty 
years, and when the tolls shall exceed twenty- five 
per cent, neat annual profit, the excess shall compose 
a fund for the redemption o; the canal, so as to render 
it free. Permission is also granted to extend their 
route to Lake Erie, or other waters of anv neigh- 
bouring state, by canals and lock navigation, or 
turnpike ; and to raise, by lotterv, the sum of three 
hundred and forty thousand dollars as a sinking fund 
on which no dividend can be raised. It is hoped and 
expected, that congress will grant a certain portion 
of the north western territory, as a fund to redeem 
the capital expended, and assist the company, by 
loans, from time to time, as the work may progress 
either in money or in certificates of the United 
States, redeemable by said extensive territory, which 
by an inland water communication with the Atlantic 
vill become highly valuable. It is also hoped and 
expected, that future legislatures, seeing the pro- 
gress, and convinced of the necessity and benefit 
arising to the state from canals, will grant a sum of 
money per mile, whenever two or three miles may- 
have been well finished and in operation. 

Number of Carnages^ at different times, in 
Philadelphia. 

In the year 1759, an accurate list was taken of the 
names of every citizen, who kept a four -C^^heel chaise 



056 NUMBER OF CARRIAGES. 

of any kind ;* from which it appeared that thirty-sev- 
en was the whole number. Single horse chairs were 
numerous. In 1772, there were eighty-eight four 
wheeled can-iages.f In 1794, the receiver o*' duty on 
pleasure carriHg..'s, made the following return. 
520 Chaifi, and 33 Sulkeys. 

80 Light VVaggons. 
137 Coachees. 

22 Ph.^.tons. 

35 Chariots. 

33 Coaches. — Total, 307 four wheeled carriages. 
In 1801, when the tax ceased, there were, exclu- 
sive of the county, 396 Sour wheeled carriages, and 
588 two wheeled chaises. At present there can be no 
doubt of their being much multiplied. The increase 
of public hacks, alone, would greatly swell the amount. 



* aiS. of the late I. Noi-ris. 
t MS, of P. du Simitiere. 



ERRATA. 

Page 22, line 10 from the bottom, for disposition read deposi' 
tion. Page 42, line 12, from bottom, for succeed read succeeds. 
Page 44, line 3, dele are. Page 47, line 2, for lessened icAtX lessen. 
Page 8l, line 5, for American VitnA Pennsylvantan Page 84, lint.* 4, 
for Gentler read Zentler Page 84, livie 5, for Aurora read Corre- 
spondent. For tlie correction of error, respecting the Number of 
Dailv News-paper impressions, see the Appendix. Page 92, line 
8, for 1809 read 1789. Page 139, note, for 1803 read 1804. Page 
144, line 12, from boU-.ni, for co'os i-ead cone. Page 235, in a few 
copies, the name of Joseph Lownes was omilltd among the ma- 
nagers of the Pennsi ivania Hospital Page 322, line H from bot- 
tom, between " any" and " building," add other. Page 324, line 
4 from bottom, for S. W read .S". E. Line 3, from bottom, for 
jifth read sixth. Line 2, from bottom, for sixth vci\djiftk. 



APPENDIX. 



NEWS-PAPER IMPRESSION'S. 

In page 84, an error was committed, respecting 
the nmnber of weekly impressions of News-papers. 

The following statement is given by Mr. Robin- 
son, in his Directory for 1811. 

" Eight daily papers, distributing upwards of 8,328 
sheets; 4,500 in the morning, and 3,828 every even- 
ing. Nine papers, once a week, that distribute 7,058 
sheets: two, twice a week, distributing 1,992 sheets: 
two, three times a week, that distribute 1,920 sheets." 

In page 138, it is stated that Mr. Reuben Haines 
originated the idea of the Hose Companies ; but I 
now learn that the name of Roberts Vaux, ought 
to have been connected with that of his friend, on the 
occasion. The original plan of a Hose Company was 
sketched by him, with estunates of costs, &c. and his 
perseverance and judgment greatly aided in organ- 
izing the troublesome and novel undertaking. The 
other active and early members of the first Hose 
Compan}', were William Morrison, Joseph Lea, 
Samuel Hazard, J. P. Parke. 

The City Councils, by a recent ordinance, have 
afforded a partial aid to the Hose Companies, by the 



3iS APPENDIX. 

grant of Si ,000, but the entire expense should be 
de'rayed by the public. It Is cei-tainly enough ii the 
youth give th 'w time, and risque their health and 
lives, in extinguishing fires, without being subject to 
the least expense. 

The Church of St. Michael, in north Fifth street, 
belonging to the Lutherans, was omitted among the 
places or worship. It was built in 1743, and is 72 
leet, by 44 ; and 22 feet high. 

Among the notices of " printing," p. 86, the Bible, 
princed and published by Robert Aitken, ol Phila- 
delphia, ought to have been mentioned. He commen- 
ced it in 1781, and finished it in 1782: it was in 
12mo, and was recommended to the public patronage 
by Congress. It was neatly executed. 

Page 21, 4th line from the bottom, after the word 
" formed," substitute the following for what is given. 
— " each o\ 396 feet: two streets, viz. Twelitli and 
Thirteenth, were added, each 50 feet broad : Irom 
Thirteenth to Broad street, the distance is 528 feet ; 
and through the middle of this square. Juniper 
street, 28 feet broad, was laid out by order oi the 
executive council during the war." Broad street was 
erigiaally, &c. &c. 



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